News > Closure of SANEline sites in Bristol and Macclesfield

Created: 2005-04-15 16:23:08

As a result of the uncertainty and damage caused by late payment by the Department of Health of monies due for a contract to provide the SANEline service, SANE has been forced to announce the closure of the helpline sites in Bristol and Macclesfield from 31 March.

During December, the two sites between them gave over 1,000 hours of one-to-one contact and responded to over 2,000 callers.

We are sad and disappointed to have had to take this step. Our helpline volunteers and staff give outstanding commitment to SANEline, answering 1,000 calls a week, giving information, advice and emotional support to distressed, anxious or concerned individuals or families. We have already been moved by the response from people hearing the news, many of whom rely on SANEline.

As a consequence of the unexpected erosion of funds the DH action has caused, and its damage to our reserves and cash flow, we have been constrained in seeking funding from other sources. We ask all our friends and supporters to help us in our fight for the future of SANEline. One way in which you could help is by writing to your MP, Ministers and health professionals. If you wish to make a donation to SANE, please click here or contact our Fundraising Department on 020 7422 5554.