A safe space to be heard, without judgement.

Listening Ear Service

Washington Mind’s Listening Ear service is here for anyone in the Sunderland and Washington area who needs confidential emotional support. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or simply need someone to talk to, our trained practitioners are here to listen and help you take the next steps toward improved wellbeing.

This is not a counselling or crisis service but an opportunity to talk openly and be heard.

How We Can Support You

Emotional Support

Speak with a professional practitioner Monday to Friday. We offer face-to-face sessions or telephone calls for confidential support whenever you need a listening ear.

Regular Wellbeing Calls

Stay connected with biweekly or monthly check-ins to see how you’re doing. These unstructured calls provide ongoing reassurance and care.

Brief Intervention

A guided programme to help you understand and manage emotions such as:

Anxiety and depression
Low self-esteem
Stress and feeling alone
Managing anger, grief, or loss
Coping with menopause

We’ll work with you to gain insights into your mental health and explore practical ways to move forward.

Graded Exposure into Social Support

Feeling anxious about joining groups or social activities? We’ll help you gradually build confidence and connect with others at your own pace.

Why Choose Listening Ear?

A confidential, non-judgemental space to talk things through.
Reduces feelings of isolation and provides emotional reassurance.
Helps build confidence and supports your road to recovery.
Available in ways that suit you: face-to-face, telephone, online, and text.

This service is especially valuable if you’ve recently been discharged from hospital or community support, helping you re-engage in everyday life.

Many people use Listening Ear as a steppingstone to our Life Support Project, where you can access groups, wellbeing activities, and psycho-educational courses to support longer-term recovery.