Online mental health services set up for Eastbourne residents

Sussex Oakleaf, which recently merged with Brighton Housing Trust and has a branch in St Leonard’s Road, set up the platform to help people in need during the coronavirus pandemic.

The service will allow visitors to chat one to one, through any internet enabled device, with one of Sussex Oakleaf’s trained mental health recovery workers.

A Sussex Oakleaf spokesperson said visitors can ask questions, share concerns, or receive guidance on how best to manage their mental health. Recovery workers will be on hand to signpost visitors to services or resources relevant to their needs.

Dudley Edwards, a senior manager for Sussex Oakleaf, said, “Supporting better mental health remains our top priority through these difficult times.

“The coronavirus outbreak presents unique challenges to people struggling with their mental health and to the way that we provide support to those people.

“Our dedicated recovery workers have already adapted quickly to new ways of working, providing support via telephone, text, and other online tools like Zoom. We have also seen an increase in people calling our helpdesk to enquire about support services.

“I am proud to see the launch of our new online platform which will provide people with an additional avenue of support during this period.”

Brighton Housing Trust chief executive Andy Winter said, “I am humbled to see the dedication a hard work being displayed by staff at Sussex Oakleaf.

“They have truly risen to the challenge of supporting better mental health during the coronavirus crisis and the innovative ways that they are finding to support others cements my belief that our merger will help to bring long-term positive impact to the communities in which we operate.”

For more information, visit www.sussexoakleaf.org.uk

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