A free-to-access helpline to help with the mental health of people in Sutton has been launched in a bid to help residents look out for their mental health during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The phone line, which is now live and available to everyone under the title Sutton Wellbeing, was set up by Sutton Mental Health Foundation (SMHF) and Sutton Council after the charity received a boost to its funding.

Alongside the free phone line, which runs with operators from SMHF from 10am-2pm Monday-Friday, a number of online events will be held weekly by the charity, including a coffee morning, a creative writing workshop and an art for wellbeing workshop.

Peter Thomas, Acting Chair of Sutton Mental Health Foundation, indicated the additional strains facing everyone at present and the need to look after our own mental health:

"Going into a third lockdown has put increased strain on a lot of people," he said.

"Sometimes just talking to someone can be really helpful; our staff are here to listen and offer support.

"We can also put you in touch with other organisations who may be able to help if that is what is needed," Thomas added.

Echoing that advice and pointing out the additional strains of January as a "traditionally difficult month", Sutton Council lauded the new project.

"It’s vitally important that we look after those that may be suffering the effects of a really difficult year, which then ended with a festive period under restrictions,"

Supporting our residents’ mental health has always been a key priority and it has never been more valuable to have a service like this one provided in our borough," he added.

"I would encourage anybody who is feeling anxious or depressed to please get in touch with the dedicated staff at Sutton Mental Health Foundation and to talk honestly about their feelings.

"Their staff are there to help."

Residents wishing to contact SMHF can call 0800 0129105, Monday to Friday 10am to 2pm.