SNP MSP CALLS FOR HIGHLAND-BASED CRISIS CENTRE TO “BRIDGE GAP IN MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES”

Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick praised the mental health support work developed by Penumbra at their Edinburgh Crisis Centre and called for a similar model to be rolled out across the country, including in the Highlands and Islands.

The Edinburgh Crisis Centre is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and provides community-based, emotional and practical support to people in mental health crisis. After initial contact via email, phone or video call, the Crisis Centre then offers further mental health support including in-person consultations and rest in the centre.

Commenting, Roddick said:

“Penumbra helped me during a difficult time in my own life, helping me recover from financial hardship and mental health issues, and assisting me in returning to Inverness. I will always be grateful to them for their support and kindness.

“It is absolutely vital that we encourage the growth of similar crisis centres across the country, including in our region, so that we can bridge the gap in mental health provision between emergency and community help with mental health in the Highlands and Islands.”