Calling Breathing Space
Who is on the other end of the line?
When you dial the Breathing Space phone number, your call will be answered by one of our specialist advisers. They come from a range of mental health, counselling and social work backgrounds. You can ask to speak specifically to a man or a woman.
The service is open when other supports such as family, friends or a GP may not be available. You can speak about what's on your mind or ask about helpful resources in your area.
It's understandable that some callers might feel nervous about picking up the phone and may not know what to expect.
Our advisers appreciate this and will give you the time to talk or even not talk. Sometimes when people call, they're not sure why they're phoning. They just need some space to think about why they're feeling anxious.
The whole spectrum of life is reflected in the calls we receive. People of all ages and backgrounds contact us and we treat each call with patience and respect.
It's always better to open up and speak about your anxieties or stresses sooner rather than later. Don't bottle things up and wait for the problems to become more acute. No call is a waste of time. If you're worried or down, pick up the phone. We're here to listen.
The advisers can offer advice and, if appropriate, give referrals to agencies that can help with more specific problems in your local area. If you are phoning it may be helpful to have a pen and paper handy in case the advisor gives you any practical help with phone numbers, addresses etc.
The service is free to phone from a landline and mobile networks Vodafone, Orange, Virgin and 3. The phone number won’t show up in telephone bills. Breathing Space call handlers can also phone people back in order to save the person's mobile phone charge.
In the event that your call was to last for a while this is okay. The advisor, on feeling that you have talked through your concern sufficiently, will bring the call to an end, but if you feel you would benefit from speaking more then please call again on another occasion.
Our hope is that when you phone Breathing Space you will feel listened to and respected no matter why you contact us. Always feel free to let us know the quality of the service you received. Your views are always welcome.
Confidentiality
Clients who contact the Breathing Space BSL service should note that in using this service via a webcam they may recognise or be recognised by the adviser, however all communications will remain confidential.
If you need help right now, visit the Immediate Help page.
