First Response Service

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First Response Service

Blue and white graphic with image of a smart phone. Words read 'Are you in a mental health crisis? Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.'

The First Response Service (FRS) puts you and your mental health first, providing a service seven days a week, 365 days a year. The service is an urgent mental health service for people with mental health and learning disability needs.

Callers either experiencing a mental health crisis, or have concerns about someone’s mental wellbeing can now access mental health care, advice and guidance 24/7.

The FRS will work closely with you, your family/carers and social networks to access the right care at the right time in the right place.

If you are concerned about feeling unsafe, are very distressed or if you are known to our services and there are signs of a mental health relapse, you can contact the FRS by dialling 111 and selecting the mental health option.

What happens when I call?

The phone will be answered by a mental health practitioner who will listen to your concerns and help you get what you need.
They can offer advice over the phone, or refer or give you information about other services which may help such as The Moorings (a support service run by Mental Health Matters - a mental health charity or put you in contact with other health services).

Who can call?

If you aren't able to make the call yourself then anyone can call on your behalf, for example a friend, carer, loved one, or your GP. The service is available to anyone aged 18 and above in a mental health crisis currently living in Devon (excluding Plymouth).

A video relay service has been introduced for NHS 111, which allows deaf and hard of hearing callers to communicate directly with NHS 111 call handlers via a remote British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter. To access, please download the SignVideo app.

The following could be reasons to call the FRS:

Changes to your mood
Withdrawing from people (close family, friends or work colleagues)
Not taking care of yourself like you usually would
Having increased thoughts about your life not being worth living
Excessive worry
Feeling out of control or unable to cope
Feeling anxious about leaving the house
Hearing voices or seeing things that others can’t
Thinking about harming yourself

By calling the FRS on 111 we can work together to get the right help.

For professionals

If you are a professional and have concerns regarding a person’s mental wellbeing, believing they are experiencing a mental health crisis, please dial 01392 539118.

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