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South Wales Argus

Wales to provide same-day mental health support through 111

This is part of a new 10-year Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy that aims to improve care across the country. The strategy focuses on early intervention, prevention, and person-centred care, ensuring that people are referred to the most appropriate form of support without delay. A key element of this transformation is the introduction of open access services that provide same-day support without the need for a referral. This initiative has already started with the Wales-wide 111 press 2 service for urgent mental health care. The plan also includes a stepped care model that provides appropriate support at each level, with people only being referred for more intensive support if needed. Sarah Murphy MS, minister for mental health and wellbeing, said: "This strategy represents a major shift in how we approach mental health and wellbeing in Wales. "By focusing on prevention and early intervention, while ensuring easy access to support when needed, we are working to create a Wales where everyone can thrive. "We know that good mental health depends on much more than healthcare alone. "That's why we're working to address all the factors that affect wellbeing – from housing and employment to tackling loneliness and building stronger communities." The strategy also aims to improve connections between services to provide support when needed. This person-centred approach includes linking people to community-based, non-clinical support through a 'social prescribing' process. Living Streets Cymru, which organises weekly guided walks and campaigns for better walking infrastructure, is one of the organisations that has benefited from Welsh Government support. Ruth Billingham from Living Streets Cymru said: "Walking has huge mental and physical health benefits. "Joining a walking group is also brilliant for self-confidence and reducing loneliness. "Our local groups bring people together to organise walks, make new connections and campaign for changes to their local walking environment."