New 24/7 mental health text service for Birmingham and Solihull
source :
Birmingham & Solihull Mental Health Trust
originally published : 4 August 2025
Text ‘Space’ to 85258 for Free, Confidential Support Anytime.
A new, round-the-clock mental health text service is now available to people living in Birmingham and Solihull, offering free and confidential support at the touch of a button.
Launched today, the all-age service is a partnership between Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and Shout, the UK’s first 24/7 text messaging support service, powered by the charity Mental Health Innovations.
Anyone experiencing anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression, or other mental health challenges can text ‘Space’ to 85258 to connect with a trained mental health professional – anytime, anywhere.
The service is designed to be discreet and accessible, particularly for those who may not feel ready to speak on the phone or in person.
In addition to providing in-the-moment support, texters can be signposted to a range of local mental wellbeing and mental health services, including Talking Therapies, Crisis Cafés, and
NHS 111 Option 2.
This new digital service aims to support and reduce pressure on services by offering an alternative route to support - especially for those waiting for further help or seeking early intervention.
Roísìn Fallon-Williams, Chief Executive of Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“Building on the range of services that are currently available, this localised approach offers a truly accessible first step for people who may not yet feel ready or able to talk face-to-face or over the phone."
