In an emergency

If you have seriously injured yourself, taken an overdose or are at immediate risk of harm:

Need help fast

If it’s not a 999 emergency but you are experiencing an immediate mental health crisis, you can:

  • call our free 24-hour daily mental health response line on 0800 9539599.

Please avoid visiting A&E (Accident and Emergency) departments unless you have a physical health emergency, if you are not sure you can call the non emergency line 111.

The AWP mental health response line will connect you to a CAMHS practitioner. If you are put on hold, we will always know you are waiting and will answer as soon as we can. For your safety, we will ask you for your details such as your name, date of birth and contact number. If you don’t want to give those details, you can call one of the alternative numbers at the bottom of the page.

Please see below details of what our mental health response line can and can’t help with:

We can...

  • Talk to you during a mental health crisis if you’re thinking of harming yourself, or if it is too urgent to wait to speak to your GP, CAMHS worker or school. 
  • Talk to us if you are considering going to Accident & Emergency (A&E) for mental health reasons.
  • Talk to you if you are under 18 years or the person you care for is under 18. 

We can’t...

  • Make a referral to CAMHS. To make a referral, please visit the child/young person referral page or professional’s referral page.
  • Come out and see you in person. Please speak to a trusted adult, such as a teacher, GP, social worker or your parent or carer, for support. 
  • Prescribe medication. Please speak to your GP or usual prescriber for advice.

Other options for support:

Contact your GP

You can also ask your GP practice for an urgent appointment during opening hours.

Speak to an adult you trust

Let someone you trust know how you are feeling. A parent or carer is often the best person, but you could also speak to your school nurse, a teacher or another trusted adult.

Contact CAMHS

If you are already supported by CAMHS, contact us directly during office hours (9 a.m – 5 p.m).  We will talk to you about how best to meet your needs. Find your service here.