One of the clearest results from my Health and Impact survey a few months ago was the potential effect of the landfill on people's mental health.
The local NHS recognise the impact the situation is having on residents, and have therefore commissioned both the Mind counsellor currently being recruited and also Changes Health & Wellbeing to facilitate local support groups. Once dates are confirmed for both of these services I will of course share them on here.
Affected residents can self-refer to mental health services online at www.staffsandstokewellbeing.nhs.uk or by calling 0300 303 0923 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm). They will be supported by this service until Mind has recruited the full-time counsellor.
Anyone experiencing significant mental health issues should see their GP for a referral to primary care mental health services.
If you would like to talk to someone about any mental wellbeing issues, there are several sources of help on Staffordshire Council’s website (https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/…/Keepi…/Mental-health.aspx).
Alternative phone numbers that may be of assistance include:
NHS 111
Samaritans 116 123
Staffordshire Mental Health Helpline 0808 800 2234
Mind North Staffordshire 01782 262 100