NHS 111 Option 2 for Mental Health has launched

NELFT in collab with ELFT (East London NHS Foundation Trust) and partners across Northeast London (NEL) has introduced a groundbreaking initiative to enhance mental health support: the NHS 111 option 2 for mental health crises, ensuring round-the-clock access to assistance. 

Residents of Barking and Dagenham, City of London, Havering, Hackney, Redbridge, Newham, Waltham Forest and Tower Hamlets can now connect with a team of fully trained and qualified mental health professionals via NHS 111. 

This team, equipped with a diverse set of skills, offers prompt psychological support over the phone and maintains access to essential services and organisations tailored to individuals’ mental health needs during critical moments. 

For those already using NELFT or ELFT services, the established channels are still available during standard working hours, from 9 am to 5 pm. 

For individuals who are new to these services or are contacting outside of working hours, reaching out to 111 and selecting option 2 provides access to mental health professionals. 

This service complements existing NELFT services including the NELFT Mental Health Direct: 0800 995 1000. 

For inquiries or further information, please contact Melanie King, the Crisis Pathway Service Manager, at melanie.king2@nhs.net