MINDLINE Somerset is open to people in the Wellington area over the festive period, providing a listening ear in confidence ton those who need to talk to someone, feel isolated, distressed or upset.

Mindline Somerset has been run by Mind in Taunton and West Somerset for 15 years and has supported thousands of callers, increasing to more than 6,000 a year.

It can also give basic information about mental health and local services and is currently open 8pm to 11pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday on 01823 276892.

The service is provided by volunteers who are everyday people who have decided to offer their spare time to support and listen to others.

All the volunteers are fully trained and supported throughout the time they give to the service – they may have an interest in mental health, survivors or personal experience helping close ones.

Mindline Somerset is open on the evenings of Christmas Day, Boxing Day and December 27, as well as the usual nights it currently covers.

For more information about Mindline and other services provided by the mental health charity Mind in Taunton and West Somerset visit www.mindline.org

Mindline is recruiting more volunteers – to volunteer email the team on [email protected] or call 01823 334 906.

To support the local charity to help continue to provide services for Somerset visit www.justgiving.com/Mindtws