From 1 April 2026, NHS 111 option 2 replaced the previous 0800 995 1000 and 0300 Mental Health Direct lines.

If you’re in a mental health crisis, call NHS 111 and press option 2 to speak to a trained mental health professional. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Tip: Keep the number somewhere visible – on your phone, fridge, or wallet – so it’s easy to reach when you need help.

What support is available

The NHS 111 option 2 team will:

• Listen to you
• Offer on-the-phone support
• Connect you to the right services and local support
• Provide access to an interpreter if needed

You don’t need the right words – please just get in touch. You do not need a diagnosis. You can call for yourself or on behalf of someone else.

 

For existing NELFT service users

If you already use NELFT services, continue to contact your usual service during working hours (9am to 5pm).

 

Transition from old numbers

To ensure this transition is manage safely we have organised auto redirection of all calls to the old Mental Health Direct number for a period.  The number of calls to the old Mental Health Direct number will be monitored and the auto redirect will only be stopped once we have assurance that callers are now using the new NHS 111 number.

 

When to call 999 or go to A&E

If someone has a serious physical injury or medical emergency, A&E is still the right place to go.

If you are unsure, you can always call NHS 111 option 2 first.