The South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust has launched a series of revamped websites to better serve individuals seeking mental health support in South Tyneside, Sunderland, and Gateshead. This initiative marks the beginning of 2025 with a renewed commitment to providing accessible mental health resources.
The newly designed digital hub offers a comprehensive starting point for anyone in need of mental health assistance, available 24/7. It caters to a diverse range of needs, from treatment options to support groups, clearly outlining the services available in each area.
South Tyneside:
- Adult Talking Therapies: Lifecycle Services
- Mental Health Support Service: Healthy Minds Team
- Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services
Sunderland:
- Mental Health Service
- Healthy Heads Team for children
- Community Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services
Gateshead:
- Adult Talking Therapies
- Adult Mental Health Peer Support Service
- Children and Young People’s Primary Care Mental Health Service
- Children and Young People’s Mental Health Service
Each section provides detailed guidance on how to make a referral for a child or young person, as well as advice for health professionals on setting up appointments. Additionally, the platforms for children and young people offer signposts to organizations and information that can provide further assistance.
David Newell, who oversees all the mental health services across South Tyneside, Sunderland and Gateshead, commented:
"Lots of work has been going on behind the scenes to bring together all this information to help people in their time of need.
"Now these sites are there for people to visit around the clock, at a time when they’re ready to take that step and find the help they may need.
"They’re also really useful if you’re worried about a friend or relative, so you can help them make that move to get support.
"Anyone who supports someone aged 18 or under can find out how our teams can work alongside a child or young person if they’re struggling with their emotions or behaviour.
"The pages also signpost people to lots of information, so people can look at the detail at their own pace.
"Crucially, these sites are a front door for our services, but we have teams of experts on hand ready to help when people are referred for our support or make that call to make a change."
For adults, the websites offer access to a plethora of resources, including crisis support, self-help tools, and information on additional organizations that can offer help. This includes support for debt management, career advice, tackling loneliness, and online courses.
The new websites also feature video clips that offer practical advice on managing mental health conditions, including handling issues related to sexual abuse, domestic violence, and self-harm.
With the launch of these updated websites, the South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust continues to demonstrate its commitment to improving mental health support for the residents of South Tyneside, Sunderland, and Gateshead. These resources are poised to become a crucial tool for individuals seeking help and guidance in managing their mental health.
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