MENTAL-HEALTH support is available throughout the Christmas and New Year period, a time which the government says can be “very difficult” for some people.
Those who may be experiencing mental-health challenges at this time of year are able to access the Listening Lounge every day until Christmas Eve, as well as between Christmas and New Year, while there is also access to a “24/7” digital support service, and a 24-hour crisis line.
“We know that Christmas can be very difficult for some people,” said Andy Weir, director of mental-health services and adult social care. “Providing early mental-health support is vital for people experiencing mental-health difficulties, so if you are struggling this Christmas, please seek support.”
The Listening Lounge, based in Charles Street, St Helier, was awarded a three-year contract by the Health Department in September following a pilot scheme, and is operated by LV Care Group.
The service is aimed at Islanders aged 18 and over with common mental-health difficulties and wellbeing problems such as low-level anxiety and depression.
Lucy Nicolaou, LV’s director for mental-health provision, said: “We’re delighted that the Listening Lounge service will continue after a very successful pilot.
“Difficult feelings like anxiety, depression and stress can affect all of us, and we know the importance of support being available and accessible at the right time. We welcomed over 5,000 people through our doors in our first four years and look forward to meeting more Islanders in the run-up to Christmas and over the year ahead.”
The Listening Lounge’s normal hours are 10am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday, although the service will end at 6pm on Christmas Eve and be closed on 25 and 26 December, as well as on 1 January. Appointments can be booked by calling 866793, but walk-in visits are also welcome.
The Listening Lounge’s new contract includes individual counselling sessions from professionals trained in a range of therapeutic approaches, as well as group sessions focusing on psycho-education and shared experiences. The groups are facilitated by both counsellors and peer support workers and are designed to provide practical insights and support in a welcoming, communal environment.
A set of festive “top tips” has also been published to support those feeling isolated or anxious.
Who to contact
– Listening Lounge: Charles House, Charles Street, St Helier, JE2 4SF (access via Ingouville Place). Call 866793 or here.
– TogetherAll: provides digital mental-health support 24 hours per day, seven days a week, every day of the year. More information available here.
– Jersey Adult Mental Health 24-hour Crisis Line: 445290.
