Mental Health
For information about urgent support around mental health, click here
Mental health and safeguarding are closely linked. People experiencing mental ill health may be at increased risk of abuse, neglect, exploitation, self-neglect, domestic abuse or financial harm, while experiencing abuse or trauma can also have a significant impact on a person’s mental health and wellbeing. Effective safeguarding means recognising these connections, listening to the person’s views and wishes, and working together across services to provide the right support at the right time.
Examples of safeguarding concerns involving mental health may include:
- A person with severe depression who is self-neglecting, not eating properly, or living in unsafe conditions.
- Someone experiencing coercive control or domestic abuse that is affecting their mental wellbeing and safety.
- Financial exploitation of a person whose mental health condition impacts their ability to manage money or recognise risks.
- A person experiencing suicidal thoughts who may need urgent support and protection from harm.
- Abuse, neglect or discrimination towards people receiving mental health services.
- Online exploitation, cuckooing, or criminal exploitation of a person who is vulnerable due to mental ill health.
- Concerns about a carer who is struggling to cope, resulting in neglect of the person they support.
Taking a trauma-informed, strengths-based and person-centred approach helps individuals to stay safe, maintain independence and achieve the outcomes that matter most to them. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and early support can help prevent concerns from escalating into crisis.
If you are concerned about the safety or wellbeing of an adult or child, do not ignore it. Seek advice, share concerns appropriately, and make a safeguarding referral where required.
The Warrington & Halton Support Hub provides free, person-centred mental health and wellbeing support for adults aged 18 and over across Warrington and Halton.
"We offer a safe, welcoming space where people can access emotional support, practical guidance and help to improve their mental wellbeing. Whether you're experiencing a difficult time, feeling isolated, struggling with your mental health or simply need someone to talk to, our team is here to listen without judgement.
Support is tailored to each individual and may include one-to-one emotional support, wellbeing planning, signposting to local services, and opportunities to build confidence, independence and social connections. We work closely with local organisations to ensure people can access the right support at the right time."
The Hub is open 365 days a year, providing out-of-hours mental health support every evening from 6:00pm until midnight. Our face-to-face support is available in:
- Warrington: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
- Halton: Tuesday and Thursday