We’ve teamed up with Shout to offer a new type of support for all students in Place2Be secondary schools.

Text ‘P2B’ to 85258 to get free, confidential support if you're struggling any time, day or night.

If your life, or someone else’s life, is in immediate danger, call 999.

About Shout

If you're struggling and need to talk to someone, you can text P2B to 85258 for free any time, day or night.

Shout is open 24/7, and a trained volunteer will aim to reply to you within 5 minutes. When they’re really busy, at times it will be longer, but Shout will get in touch as soon as they can.

Once you’re talking to someone, you can stop the conversation at any time by texting STOP.

Texting Shout is free and anonymous - this means that no one will know that you have texted Shout. Anything you say stays private unless the Shout Volunteer is concerned for your immediate safety, then they may share your details with people who can provide support.

While you’re waiting for someone to text back, watch this video from Shout with five tips to help you feel calmer:

FAQs

1. How do I use it?
   If you need urgent help, simply text P2B to 85258. We will aim to respond within 5 minutes.
   Text messages are free within the UK.
2. What will happen when I send a text?
   The volunteer will introduce themselves, listen to you, and invite you to share at your own pace. You’ll text back and forth, only sharing what you feel comfortable with. By asking questions, listening to you and responding with support, they will help you sort through your feelings until you both feel you are now in a calm, safe place.
3. Will it show up on my phone bill?
   Your texts will not show up on your phone bill, even if it is itemised.
4. Can I text the Place2Be manager or counsellor from my school?
   The support is provided by specially trained volunteers through Shout. You will not be able to text someone from Place2Be. If you want to access the Place2Be service in your school you can ask to speak to the Place2Be member of staff.
5. Will my parents/carers/teachers/Place2Be know that I’ve text the service?
   The support is confidential, so no-one will know unless we believe that you are in immediate danger or at risk of abuse, harm or neglect. If this happens Shout will call emergency services to help you.
6. What if I’m in primary school but I want to text in?
   You can still use the service if you need urgent help, but you might find it useful to look at other support designed for pupils your age, such as Childline (available online or by calling 08001111).
7. What if I’m abroad but want to text?
   This service is designed to be used in the UK. If you are due to be abroad for an extended period of time, it may be worth looking into local options for support.