HEALTH consumer watchdogs have updated their guide on support and services available to those with mental health and other non-physical issues in York.

Healthwatch York has increased the advice on student mental health and included details on Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV) services in the new edition of Mental Health and Wellbeing Guide in York, which was first published in 2015.

The consumer organisation will distribute copies of the free booklet to statutory organisations that work with people with mental health issues, GP surgeries, libraries and community venues.

TEWV started running mental health services in York in October 2015 and funded the upgrade.

Ruth Hill, TEWV project director said: “We know that this is a valuable resource for people and has lots of excellent tips for health and wellbeing and signposting to services.”

As well as advice and detailing support on mental health, the guide also includes information about and support services for alcohol and drugs, benefits, bereavements, eating disorders, debt, inter-cultural matters, pregnancy, online safety, self-harm, military veterans, gambling and family issues among others.

York Press:

Siân Balsom, Director of Healthwatch York, said: “Our guide is unique because of the vision behind it.

"It was led by Healthwatch York volunteer Louise Sangwine who, as a former mental health service user, knows how vital good information is.

“She shaped the guide to be more than just a directory of services. She found the answers to the questions she knows people regularly ask.

"We hope this updated guide will help even more people in York to take care of their mental wellbeing and find support when needed”