Thousands suffer in silence in Tyrone as cost of living crisis continues

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to take its toll, Helplines NI is highlighting that many people in Tyrone will for the first time need support with issues such as debt and poor mental health.
By Stanley Campbell
Published 13th Feb 2023, 15:05 BST
Updated 13th Feb 2023, 15:06 BST
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As a result, thousands may be unsure where best to turn, and so are at risk of not getting the support they need.

Helplines NI, funded by the Public Health Agency, is an online directory of Northern Ireland based telephone and online support services including Lifeline, Samaritans, Parenting NI, Advice NI and Housing Rights.

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It brings together the expertise of its various members, with all fully aware of the capabilities and services offered by each other and able to advise on the most appropriate service tailored to their individual needs.

Pictured, from left, Claire O Prey Vice Chair at Helplines NI and Team Leader at Lifeline and Clodagh Crowe Chair at Helplines NI and Head of Operations and Strategic Development at Rural Support). Pic Matt MackeyPictured, from left, Claire O Prey Vice Chair at Helplines NI and Team Leader at Lifeline and Clodagh Crowe Chair at Helplines NI and Head of Operations and Strategic Development at Rural Support). Pic Matt Mackey
Pictured, from left, Claire O Prey Vice Chair at Helplines NI and Team Leader at Lifeline and Clodagh Crowe Chair at Helplines NI and Head of Operations and Strategic Development at Rural Support). Pic Matt Mackey

Clodagh Crowe, Chair at Helplines NI and Head of Operations and Strategic Development at Rural Support said: “We are particularly concerned for people this January as the cost of -living-crisis adds an additional layer of complexity and vulnerability to many households.

"Our members are currently experiencing an influx in the level of calls related to finance and mental health. It’s crucial that people who haven’t had to turn to a support service in the past understand that help is available, and the Helplines NI platform is an excellent starting point.

"Our member helplines provide a variety of vital support services including advice, counselling, a listening ear and be-friending. People will reach out with a wide array of problems, and we can reassure them there are services available to help.”

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All of the organisations that are part of the Helplines NI network provide confidential support via telephone, email, text, and in some cases live webchat.

Claire O’Prey, Vice-Chair at Helplines NI and Team Leader at Lifeline says that reaching out to a telephone service for guidance or crisis support is a lot more common than people may realise.

She said: “People who need support should not feel embarrassed or ashamed. In fact, at Helplines NI we believe that everyone will need some kind of advice at some point in their lives.”

For more information and to browse the services offered by Helplines NI members, visit helplinesni.com

Related topics:Lifeline