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Ben has launched a new text service for individuals struggling or in crisis ahead of Blue Monday on 16b January.
The text service offers free and anonymous support outside of Ben’s helpline hours (Mon-Fri 8am-8pm), in partnership with Shout.
Individuals needing support outside of Ben’s helpline hours, can text the word BEN to 85258 and receive four automated messages which will connect them to the next available trained professional who will offer support.
Rachel Clift, health and wellbeing director at Ben, said: “We are delighted to be launching our text service in advance of Blue Monday as we know this will be a hugely valuable new resource for people who need our help.
“The fact that people can now contact us and receive support at any time, day or night, means that we can offer potentially life-saving support to our automotive family who may be struggling or in crisis.
“Sometimes people prefer to text rather than speak on the phone, it can be easier to share how we truly feel, to chat discretely if there are others in earshot, or to talk about things that are causing us shame or embarrassment over text rather than having to say them out loud.
“Our existing webchat during the day and now a dedicated out of hours text support service gives our community another way of accessing vital help and may make a crucial difference to someone who is thinking of harming themselves or taking more drastic action in a time of crisis. We want people to know that we are here, any time, for a judgment-free, confidential chat.”