Gloucestershire Mental Wellbeing Helpline

Gloucestershire County Council wishes commission a new remote open access service providing integrated support for adults experiencing mild-moderate mental health issues such as anxiety, low-mood, depression, and support for self-harm.

This new Service will be accessible to all adults (i.e., those aged 18 year and above) resident in Gloucestershire and/or registered with a Gloucestershire GP, with no need for a referral, and will be accessed through a variety of methods (however telephone and web chat and/or text will be a minimum service requirement). Service Users will be able to remain anonymous if they wish.

The core service model will include provision of:

Non-judgemental, person-centred support via an open access remote helpline (telephone and web chat and/or text), providing emotional, listening, and practical support by trained advisers on a ‘drop in’ basis for the Target Audience (section 3 of this document), to help manage their presenting issues. For individuals presenting with actual self-harm or self-harm ideation this will include mechanisms to reduce harm such as wound care and alternative, less harmful ways of managing feelings, recognising triggers etc.

Signposting to other sources of support where appropriate (local and national), based on the needs of the Service User.

Access to a wide variety of online self-care tools and resources, including signposting to hard copies where online options are not accessible.

The new Service must work alongside and (where appropriate) signpost into Gloucestershire’s existing mental health services; and other sources of community-based support to ensure integrated care pathways.

The Service will have its own unique brand identity (i.e., name, logo, and website) and the Provider must develop promotional and signposting materials, and engage with key partners, stakeholders, and community groups to establish partnerships and help raise awareness of the Service.