The Western Isles Psychological Wellbeing Hub launched today, Monday 4^th May 2020. It is for anyone of any age living in the Western Isles areas who is feeling psychologically distressed and wants to seek additional support for their psychological health or the psychological health of their child.

While we recognise that anxiety is to be expected right now, this service is for people who notice that they are experiencing continuous anxiety or distress due to their situation just now or feel that they are in need of some extra support. People might feel particularly anxious if they know someone who has the virus or is ill, or those who have had mental health or psychological difficulties before might feel those symptoms heightened or worse during this difficult time.

The Psychological Wellbeing hub will complement the support being offered through Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Resilience Helpline which provides people with information on how to access practical support and the NHS Advice Helpline which provides information for general health queries or concerns regarding the Covid-19 situation.

The Western Isles Psychological Wellbeing Service will operate during the normal working hours of 9am-5.30pm Monday to Friday.   Out with these times individuals will be directed to local and or national support services who will be able to offer assistance.

Referral to the hub can be made by downloading the referral form at  https://bit.ly/3eYa3RQ and then emailing it to wi-hb.PsychologicalSupportForCorona@nhs.net.

For those without internet access a referral or self referral can be made by phoning the Community Navigator Team on 01851 708022 or the NHS Western Isles Covid 19 Advice line on 01851 601151.