ChatHealth: Frequently Asked Questions

ChatHealth is a safe and secure messaging platform that has been developed by the NHS to help healthcare service users get confidential help and advice from healthcare professionals.

The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust has launched ChatHealth for 11-19 year olds across Wolverhampton. By texting 07507 332 631, they can contact a school nurse to get confidential advice and support for a range of health and wellbeing issues.

You can find out more about the service at www.chathealth.nhs.uk

ChatHealth can help young people get confidential advice and support for a range of health and wellbeing issues, including:

• Anxiety, emotions and anger
• Bullying
• Family issues and friendships
• Sexual health and contraception
• Smoking, alcohol and drugs
• Sleep
• Staying healthy
  
  

School nurses will also be able to put you in touch with other local NHS or support services that can help.

ChatHealth works by messages being sent to a dedicated number - 07507 332 631 - which are delivered to a secure website. Messages are read by a school nurse who then starts a text conversation with the young person.

All texts receive an automatic message explaining where to get help if their question or concern is urgent, and when they can expect a response.

ChatHealth is available 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday (except bank holidays). We aim to respond to texts within 24 hours. If your text is received outside of these hours, we will aim to respond on the next working day.

ChatHealth adheres to strict rules around privacy and data protection. You can find out more on the ChatHealth website.

Messages are charged at the usual rate but are free with an inclusive text package.

For medical help and advice outside of these hours, please call your GP, visit an NHS Walk-in Centre or call 111, or dial 999 or visit A&E if it is an emergency.

You can end a messaging conversation at any time by texting the word STOP. This will prevent a school nurse from sending any further messages to you.