News
Scotland's first postnatal depression helpline launched
Friday 6 June 2008
Scotland's first postnatal depression telephone helpline "Bluebell at ParentLine Scotland" was launched on Friday 6 June - national awareness-raising day for postnatal depression.
The initiative is a joint venture between CHILDREN 1ST and CrossReach, the social care arm of the Church of Scotland.
From the ParentLine call centre in Edinburgh, the partnership will provide a Scotland-wide advice service for sufferers of postnatal depression and their families.
The helpline was launched at the annual Bluebell Bunfight a fun, family-friendly coffee morning held at Tynecastle Stadium in Edinburgh.
Jill Cook, manger of ParentLine Scotland, said: "Every year, ParentLine helps thousands of parents and carers who are facing a wide range of difficulties.
"Helplines are an important support for people who may find it difficult to share their concerns with family or friends and often feel extremely isolated. We are delighted that through this partnership with CrossReach we have been able to develop our expertise in supporting callers affected by post natal depression."
Viv Dickenson of CrossReach, added: "Until now support for families struggling with postnatal depression has been patchy. The launch of the Bluebell at ParentLine Scotland helpline is a major step forward in our campaign to provide Scotland-wide support for all sufferers of postnatal depression and their families. The helpline will be an invaluable resource and will operate in addition to existing services run by the NHS and voluntary organisations.
"We are delighted to be working in collaboration with ParentLine to ensure no one suffers in silence."
CrossReach will cover the costs of a dedicated helpline number and has provided specialised, expert training for calltakers, while ParentLine Scotland, in addition to its highly trained team of volunteer calltakers, will provide technical and professional support services.
Both organisations are confident that through working together, they have developed a vital support service for families affected by post natal depression.
The freephone helpline telephone number is 0800 3457 457.
Lines are open from 9am-5pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday and from 9am-9pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Last updated: Saturday 11 April 2009
