School's out in Sefton - but school nurses are still available by text

Children in Sefton will still have access to their school nurses during the holidays, using a text messaging service provided by Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust.

Sefton residents aged 11 to 19 can message their school nurse for confidential help and advice about a range of issues including emotional health, sexual health, relationships, alcohol, drugs, and bullying.

Paula Lawrenson, team manager at the school nurse service with Mersey Care, explained: “This isn’t an emergency service, but during the holidays young people can still get help or advice from their school nurse.

“We’re here to make sure they’re getting help for things that can be hard to talk about.”

Text messaging is available Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays) from 9am to 4.30pm. Each message sent to the dedicated number, 07312 263291, will receive an automated message and a reply within 24 working hours.

The Sefton messaging service is run by Mersey Care and powered by theaward-winning messaging platform, ChatHealth.

Urgent help should be sought by calling 111. In an emergency, dial 999 or go to A&E (Emergency Department), the automated message will signpost to these services. 

More information about the Sefton School Nurse service can be found on their dedicated webpage.