New Waltham Forest Beacon offers mental health support in the community

A new out-of-hours mental health support service has launched in Waltham Forest, offering adults a safe and welcoming place to access support during the eveningsThe service, called Waltham Forest Beacon, was named by service users and has been developed in partnership between NELFT and Hestia. It is open 365 days a year: Weekdays: Monday - Friday at 5:30pm - 10pm and on Weekends and Bank Holidays: 3pm - 10pm

The Waltham Forest Beacon provides face-to-face support for adults aged 18 and over who may be experiencing emotional distress, struggling with their mental health, or needing support outside of traditional 9–5 services.

Delivered by Hestia alongside NELFT, the service is staffed by a dedicated team, including staff who have lived experience of mental health challenges, providing compassionate, person-centred support in a safe setting. The service is built around the principles of relational care, recognising the importance of listening, trust and human connection in supporting people through difficult times.

The support forms part of a wider network of community-based mental health support hubs across north east London: I need help with my mental health

Jamie Stafford, Integrated Care Director for Waltham Forest at NELFT said:

“We know that many people need support with their mental health outside of traditional office hours.

Waltham Forest Beacon offers a welcoming and supportive space where adults can access help, talk to someone, and receive compassionate support, closer to home. Please don’t wait to access support, please just come and see how we can help.

The service has been developed collaboratively with service users and partners, helping ensure it feels accessible, inclusive and responsive to local need.”

Josef Hole, Service Manager at the Waltham Forest Beacon, Hestia, said,