Sheffield key workers urged to make the most of mental health support

As Sheffield gets used to tighter restrictions once again, the city’s key workers feel increasing pressure to curb the rates.

Our Frontline - a partnership between Samaritans, Mind, Shout 85258 , Hospice UK and The Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge - wants to remind people of the mental health support that is available and to help them realise that those on the frontline can be vulnerable too.

Ruth Sutherland, CEO of Samaritans, said: “Our key workers are placing themselves at risk in order to protect the rest of us. The prolonged nature of this pandemic coupled with tightened restrictions that take away the things that usually offer relief, such as seeing loved ones and enjoying activities outside of the home, can take a real toll on our mental health.

“It’s vital that our frontline know they don’t have to face anything alone and that we are here to help them as much as they are helping us.”

Those working on the front line may not realise the risks to mental health or may feel embarrassed of the fact that they are struggling, which is why the Our Frontline partnership has been created.

Victoria Hornby, CEO of Mental Health Innovations, which runs Shout 85258 - a 24/7 text support service - added: “People in a position of helping others can often be the last to ask for help. Since the national lockdown, our volunteers have had text conversations with thousands of frontline staff who are struggling and many had never asked for help before.

“We want to encourage people who may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, anxious or struggling in other ways to reach out because expressing your feelings and being listened to can make a real difference.”

Our Frontline offers free and confidential round-the-clock one-to-one support, in which trained volunteers will answer your call or text.

There are also resources, tips and ideas online to help you look after your mental health.

For more information, see: www.ourfrontline.org or text FRONTLINE, BLUELIGHT or KEYWORKER to 85258.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.