Mental health support for Paragon Skills’ learners, our Shout collaboration in action
At Paragon Skills, prioritising the mental health and wellbeing of our learners and colleagues is a fundamental aspect of our commitment. In partnership with Shout, we’re proud to offer a free mental health text support service that has significantly enhanced the mental health and emotional health of our learners. This partnership underscores the tangible benefits of Shout’s service in fostering a positive impact on our community.
Shout, the UK’s pioneering free, confidential messaging support service, operates 24/7 thanks to its dedicated volunteers. Since its public launch in May 2019, Shout has engaged in over 1,000,000 conversations, providing immediate support to individuals struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Notable, Shout’s digital service has proven especially crucial during the Covid-19 pandemic, operating seamlessly and offering uninterrupted mental health support.
Shout has facilitated over 1,800 conversations daily since it’s inception, with texters reaching out around the clock, reflective of its unwavering 24/7 commitment. With a commendable pool of over 2,300 trained volunteers, Shout ensures that support is accessible at any time of the day, exemplifying their dedication to aiding those in need.
Maintaining positive mental health and wellbeing is essential for everyone, yet there are times when external and internal factors may challenge the equilibrium. At Paragon Skills, we recognise the significance of providing avenues for support, especially during times of stress, anxiety or depression. Shout’s crisis text messaging service aligns seamlessly with our commitment to mental health, offering 24/7 crisis support to anyone seeking assistance.
By texting ‘Pgon’ to 85258, individuals can connect with a trained crisis volunteer who will provide empathetic support at their own pace. This text-based exchange allows individuals to share thei feelings comfortably, with volunteers asking questions, actively listening, and responding with supportive guidance. The goal is to help individuals navigate their emotions until a sense of calm and safety is established. Additionally, the service may offer helpful referrals to other support avenues for ongoing assistance.
At Paragon Skills, we stand firm in our commitment to supporting the mental health journey of our learners and colleagues. As recipients of the Gold Leaders in Safeguarding award, our programmes incorporate self-study and guided reflection to promote positive wellbeing and resilience. However, recognising that direct support and intervention are sometimes necessary, our partnership with Shout ensures that our community has access to immediate and compassionate crisis support when needed. Together, we strive to create a culture of wellbeing and support that extends beyond the realms of traditional learning.
If you feel that you are struggling with a positive sense of wellbeing or mental health, would like support, and don’t know who to turn to; please text ‘Pgon’ to 85258 to speak with a trained crisis volunteer.
If you would like to learn more about becoming a trained volunteer with Shout, follow the link to their website – https://giveusashout.org/