As part of Sign Health’s ongoing work to improve deaf people’s health and wellbeing, they have launched a crisis text service powered by partners Shout so that deaf people can get immediate confidential support.
The helpline operates a 24/7 service to connect people with urgent issues such as feeling suicidal, abused or suffering with poor mental health. The technology used is from the organisation Crisis Text Line in the USA.
SignHealth are the first deaf organisation to provide such a service and this is a unique opportunity to offer deaf people immediate support in a crisis. The service is promoted by SignHealth and run by Shout trained staff and volunteers. It is available 24 hours a day.
UK Deaf Sport recognises the importance of these services for deaf athletes, volunteers and deaf people who are engaged in physical activity and playing sport on a competitive and recreational level. We would encourage anybody needing support to get in touch with the service.
If you are a deaf person experiencing a mental health crisis or know someone who is, you can send a text to the Crisis Text Service for free using the keyword DEAF to 85258.
For more information, please visit Sign Health website.
