Helping You: Helplines

[Wedge]

This thread relates only to the specific web page in the title above, which is found on the FirstSigns website at:

http://www.firstsigns.org.uk/help/helplines.html

This thread is for people to discuss this single page. If you have general comments about the FirstSigns website, you can post a new thread in the 'FirstSigns' forum.

[Charlotte]

i think NHS direct is great... but i wish they offered a general advice service too. One where you didn't have to give your name, doctors name etc.

[Wedge]

I know just what you mean, but they are specifically set up for physical healthcare. Personally, I never give out information I'm not comfortable giving out, but I have rung NHS Direct and accepted their advice and help.

[bigbird]

NHS direct good for general help..hmm emotional not so sure.

BB

[Charlotte]

yeah i guess. I was calling up for a friend, and i needed general advice, not emotional but physical and i couldn't talk to anyone unless i gave information out about myself.

[Jules]

I think NHS direct vary from area to area. I phoned them for emotional help for a friend once and they arranged for a crisis team to contact him. But then I did have to give a lot of details so I can see the problem.

I also think one of the reasons they ask so many questions is to prevent hoax calls and time wasters - I think a lot of potential hoaxers could be put off by all those questions.