27 July 2017

For immediate publication

CNWL statement following news of concerns about rising levels of suicidal thoughts in the Grenfell Tower area

Dr Alastair Bailey, Clinical Lead for CNWL's Take Time to Talk Service, said: "It's important that people know we are here to listen to anyone struggling with painful feelings, such as despair, guilt, or hopelessness, following the trauma of these events; listening to people at times of distress helps process their pain; even people in real despair need someone to listen, not to judge or to jump in too early with advice.

"People can reach out to many local organisations including faith based groups as well the Samaritans for emotional help; they are easy to contact and speak to, and will be non-judgemental.

"We also have an 24-hour NHS support line - 0800 0234 650 - we will talk to distressed people, or concerned  family, friends or carers, at any time and provide clinical advice."

For more details:

Contact Senior Communications Officer Jeremy Dunning on 0203 214 5756 or email jeremy.dunning@nhs.net

Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust
Stephenson House, 75 Hampstead Road, London NW1 2PL
Tel: 020 3214 5756 e-mail:communications.cnwl@nhs.net