06 May 2025
Mental health awareness charity It’s OK To Say has launched a dedicated helpline to support mental health for all…
In the heart of St Albans, something quietly powerful is unfolding. It’s OK To Say, the local mental health care and wellbeing charity founded by Stacey Turner, has launched a dedicated helpline: a gentle but life-changing invitation for people of all ages to reach out, be heard, and feel supported.
At a time when accessing mental health services can often feel overwhelming, confusing or simply out of reach, this helpline is a breath of fresh air. It’s not just a number, it’s a doorway. A doorway to compassionate, free therapeutic support, whether for individuals, families, or young people, all delivered by experienced professionals in a safe and welcoming space.
“We created this helpline because we knew people were falling through the cracks,” says Stacey. “We wanted to make it easier for anyone — no matter their age or background—to simply pick up the phone and know that someone on the other end will truly listen and guide them forward. My favourite phone call so far has been from an 80-year-old woman in Hemel Hempstead who doesn’t have the internet, and simply said, I am so lonely. This phone call ended up being her favourite conversation in a while she softly reported back!”
And the ripple effect doesn’t stop there. The helpline acts as a powerful pathway into the charity’s wider range of services: one-to-one and group therapy sessions, family support, community workshops, student programs, to name a few. Referrals can come through GPs, social prescribers, and other professionals, or directly from those in need – because accessibility is at the core of It’s OK To Say’s mission.
For many, making that first call is the hardest step. But with a warm, friendly voice answering – someone trained not just in mental health, but in kindness offering emotional support – it becomes the first step toward hope, healing, and feeling human again.
“We believe there should never be barriers to accessing quality mental health care,” adds Stacey. “This helpline is one more way we’re making sure no one ever has to walk alone.
“We’re committed to opening access to our services in a thoughtful, community-focused way so that as more people reach out, they’re met with the same care, compassion, and consistent support that It’s OK To Say is known for.”
The charity invites the community to spread the word: whether you’re struggling yourself, worried about someone else, or simply want to learn more, the helpline is here. No judgment, no barriers—just help.
Because at It’s OK To Say, asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s the start of everything.
- 58 St Peter’s Street, St Albans, AL1 3HG
- www.itsoktosay.org.uk
- 01727 482457
Stacey says: “Thank you to Hannah Sessions for kindly drawing our location map and gifting us lots of her lovely
artwork, now in frames in our offices. Check her out here:
https://www.hannahsessionsdesign.com/”
