AQW 7245/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 22/02/2024
Answered On Date: 07/03/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail plans for increasing funding available for therapeutic counselling services provided by non-statutory organisations.

Answer:

The Public Health Agency (PHA) invest approximately £900k in the Self Harm Intervention Programme (SHIP). The Self-Harm Intervention Service supports individuals from age 11+ to receive support in relation to self-harm. Referrals are made to SHIP by HSC Trusts, mental health services through a formal referral pathway. The service is delivered on the ground by Community and Voluntary organisations across Northern Ireland. The PHA invest a further £3.2 million in the Lifeline service. This is service is available to anyone living in Northern Ireland. Citizens can call Lifeline free of charge on 0808 808 8000 if they are experiencing distress or despair. The Lifeline helpline is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Those that phone Lifeline can speak to a professionally trained counsellor who will listen and provide help and support needed in confidence. Lifeline counsellors are experienced in dealing with many issues including trauma, suicide, self- harm, abuse, depression and anxiety.

The PHA invested a further £40K in 20223/24 in health improvement support to the Aisling Centre, Enniskillen and £4K to the Koram Centre, Strabane to address pressures in their counselling service demand.