A new round-the-clock phone service providing urgent mental health support has handled nearly 12,000 calls in its first year since launching in North Wales.

The NHS Wales 111 press 2 service launched in January 2023 for people with urgent mental health concerns for themselves or someone they know.

It offers quick access to a mental health professional, eliminating the need for a GP referral.

The dedicated staff at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board have handled about 1,000 calls each month on average since the launch.

Becky Baker, Head of Operations and Service Delivery said: “Since launching, this service has provided a great deal of vital support to people, helping them to quickly access the help they need whenever they need it.”