Essex Crisis Text Line
The East of England 24/7 All Age Crisis Text Support Service is free, confidential, text-based support for anyone experiencing emotional distress, anxiety, low mood, loneliness or overwhelming thoughts, or anyone who needs someone to listen. Messages are answered by registered mental health professionals. No referral is needed and you don't have to give your name. Live from Wednesday 28 October 2026. SMS: Text 'SOS' to 80899 / WhatsApp: 0800 884 0655 / Webchat: nxgthrive.co.uk/crisis-text-service
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Further info
The service runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays. It is open to all ages and works alongside existing NHS and local crisis services, including the all-age 24/7 telephone support line. It does not replace them. It is not an emergency service: if there is an immediate risk to life, call 999.
Commissioned by NHS Essex, NHS Central East and NHS Norfolk and Suffolk ICBs. Delivered by NXG Thrive.
Who can use this service?
Anyone of any age, including children, young people and adults, living in or currently in Essex or the wider East of England, who is experiencing emotional distress or needs someone to talk to. No referral, appointment or minimum threshold is needed. It is particularly suited to people who find phone calls difficult, including young people, men, neurodivergent people, LGBTQ+ communities and people in rural or isolated areas.
How are services delivered?
Text only, by SMS, WhatsApp or webchat. Messages are answered by registered, experienced mental health professionals, with a Shift Supervisor on every shift. Each conversation is a single session offering listening, coping strategies, a personal safety plan and signposting to local support. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
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