Statement on events in Israel and Gaza

In conjunction with our sister organisation the Culture, Health & Wellbeing Alliance (CHWA) we wanted to issue the following statement regarding the ongoing events in Israel and Gaza.

As an organisation focused on health, wellbeing and equity we urge the UK government to call immediately for a ceasefire in Israel and Gaza and to speak up unequivocally for the maintenance of international law and protection and support of civilians, as well as aid and health practitioners. We know that the ongoing horrifying violence will be affecting our members both directly and indirectly. We’re also acutely aware of a rising risk of racism – including islamophobia and antisemitism and hate crime in the UK itself. We have worked with CHWA to compile a list of support lines below which may be able to help you if your health and/or wellbeing is being affected. If any members would like to discuss any impacts these events are having on their work, we are here to support you – please contact us via our usual email address info@londonartsandhealth.org.uk

• Samaritans. To talk about anything that is upsetting you, you can contact Samaritans24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can call 116 123 (free from any phone), email jo@samaritans.org or visit some branches in person. You can also call the Samaritans Welsh Language Line on 0808 164 0123 (7pm–11pm every day).
• SANEline. If you’re experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else, you can call SANElineon 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10.30pm every day).
• National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK. Offers a supportive listening service to anyone with thoughts of suicide. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline UKon 0800 689 5652(6pm to midnight every day).
• Shout. If you would prefer not to talk but want some mental health support, you could text SHOUT to 85258. Shoutoffers a confidential 24/7 text service providing support if you are in crisis and need immediate help.
• Mind. If racism is affecting your mental health, contact Mind for support and help.
• Switchboard. If you identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, you can call Switchboardon 0300 330 0630 (10am–10pm every day), email chris@switchboard.lgbt or use their webchat service. Phone operators all identify as LGBT+.

If you live in England, you can call a local NHS urgent mental health helpline for support during a mental health crisis. Anyone can call these helplines, at any time.

These helplines offer similar support to a crisis team. The NHS website has more information on urgent mental health helplines, including how to find your local helpline.