Text Messaging Service to Launch for NHS 111

Dear partner,

From 14 May 2026, people across North East London will be able to text 07860 009642 to reach NHS 111’s mental health crisis support service.

ELFT, along with neighbouring north east London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT), have worked together to ensure that service users have alternative ways to receive mental health crisis support, not just by phone.

Service users will be able to text 07860 009642 for urgent mental health support.

A member of the NHS 111, Option 2 team will respond as soon as they can. They will provide psychological support and signpost to services that can offer mental health support.

This service is available for anyone who would rather text than call. For many people, words may be too difficult to say out loud, or they may not want to be overheard making a confidential phone call.

I would be grateful if you could update any public-facing materials you may have that promote NHS 111, Option 2 to include details about the text messaging service. I have also attached a poster, which you are welcome to use across your channels.

If you have any questions about the launch of the text messaging service email: elft.communications@nhs.net