People in Wolverhampton are being encouraged to seek help and advice if they are feeling overwhelmed by financial issues or want support to look after their mental health and wellbeing.

The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in lots of changes to people’s lives, and help is available to individuals who may be struggling as a result.
 
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: “Around a quarter of people in England suffer from poor mental health, and the coronavirus pandemic has made the situation worse for many.

“It’s important that they know that they do not need to suffer in silence because help and support is available and I would encourage people to seek the help they, or their loved ones, need.”

If anyone is experiencing feelings of low mood or worrying but not able to find solutions to their problems, there are a number of services that can support them:

  • The Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust runs a support line for people of all ages who are experiencing a mental health crisis. Call 0800 008 6516, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
     
  • The Samaritans provides support to people having a difficult time or who are worried about someone else. Visit Samaritans, call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org (emails will be replied to within 24 hours). 
     
  • The Sanctuary Hub provides a safe place for anyone aged 18 or over who requires support outside of regular mental health services. Call 01902 572040 between 6pm and 11pm, Monday to Friday, and noon to 11pm on Saturday and Sunday.
     
  • Wolverhampton Healthy Minds supports anyone aged 16+ registered with a Wolverhampton GP who may be experiencing stress, low mood or anxiety. Call 0800 923 0222, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, or visit Wolverhampton Healthy Minds. 
     
  • The NHS offers a range of information about good mental health and wellbeing, including self-assessment, audio guides and practical tools, at Mental health. 
     
  • Every Mind Matters provides simple tips and advice to enable people to take better care of their mental health - visit Every Mind Matters. 

There is also help and support for people worried about their finances or concerned about debt. 

The council’s Welfare Rights Service offers a Benefits and Covid-19 helpline from 10am to 12pm, Monday to Friday for people who have questions about their benefits rights and entitlements. Call 07966 292321 or email wrs.covid19@wolverhampton.gov.uk.

There is also support available from Wolverhampton Citizens Advice Bureau. For debt, text 07850 209529 or email email debtadvice@wolverhamptoncitizensadvice.com. For help with an urgent crisis, text 07525 844112 or email enquiries@wolverhamptoncitizensadvice.com.