A NEW helpline to support people's mental and emotional health and wellbeing has been launched in Bury.

'Getting Help Line' will offer non-clinical, non-urgent advice and guidance to anyone of any age.

It will also signpost people to services in the borough and nearby which can help them.

The helpline is open from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday, and is staffed by experienced and professionally-trained call handlers.

All support will be confidential and can be accessed over the phone, by email and online.

Councillor Andrea Simpson, executive cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: "The coronavirus outbreak means that life has changed for all of us for a while, and it is natural that this may cause people to fell worries or anxious, lonely or frustrated.

"The good news is that there is lots of support available locally.

"As part of Bury's recovery plan, our Getting Help Line is now available six days a week for people from Bury of all ages.

"If you feel you need some advice, guidance or support, get in touch and the team will help to connect you with the best local services to meet your needs.

The new helpline has been launched by Early Break on behalf of Bury Council and NHS Bury Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

Emma Philburn, emotional health and wellbeing manager at Early Break, said: "Whilst our voluntary sector, public services and NHS are feeling increased pressure, we are so pleased to be able to offer this service to all residents in Bury.

"As an organisation, our work in the mental health sector has grown immensely in the last few years and it is our priority to to ensure people are getting the help that they need at the right time, particularly those who are not already in contact with services or support organisations."

Professionals in Bury who are supporting people experiencing mental health problems will also be able to refer them to the Getting Help Line.

Dr Daniel Cook, a Bury GP and clinical director for mental health at NHS Bury CCG, said: "There are some simple things that you can do to help take care of your mental health and wellbeing.

"It is important to still connect with people over the phone or by video call.

"Make sure you talk about your worries and find time to do things you enjoy.

"If you feel you need some extra support, there are lots of options in place for local people and the Getting Help Line is our latest addition, offering confidential advice and guidance to help you to access the right support."

Getting Help Line can be contacted by calling 0161 464 3679, or by emailing gettinghelpline@earlybreak.co.uk.

Alternatively you can visit earlybreak.co.uk/gettinghelpline.