Developed in collaboration with Angus Health & Social Care Partnership (Angus HSCP), The Beacon will provide vital support for people aged 16 and over, offering a compassionate response to people experiencing emotional distress, distress brief intervention and suicide prevention.

The Beacon will operate from 12 noon to 12 midnight, 7 days a week every day of the year, ensuring support is available when it is needed most. In addition to face-to-face assistance at the centre, support will also be provided over the phone and through social media, making the service as accessible as possible to those seeking help.

Recruitment for The Beacon will begin in the new year, with Hillcrest Futures seeking skilled and compassionate individuals to join the team. A variety of roles will be available to help deliver this essential service and create a safe, welcoming space for people in Angus.

John Booth, director of Hillcrest Futures, commented: “We are delighted to be chosen to deliver The Beacon and look forward to working closely with Angus HSCP to shape a service that truly meets the needs of the local community.

“Mental health challenges affect so many, and The Beacon will provide a vital lifeline, offering people a safe space to turn to for support and understanding. By being open 12 hours a day, every day of the year, and offering multiple ways to access help, we aim to ensure that support is always within reach for those who need it.”

Terry Irvine, chair of Angus Mental Health and Wellbeing Network, added: “The people of Angus challenged us to be bolder when planning support for people in mental health and wellbeing distress in Angus. Thank you to every person and organisation who provided their views on what is needed, and everyone across a number of organisations who has supported the planning of The Beacon thus far. 

“The Beacon will be a non-stigmatising third sector support and is a considerable expansion in terms of how you can access support, and the times of support available in Angus. Congratulations to Hillcrest Futures as the new support provider for The Beacon; we look forward to working with you on delivering this exciting new resource.”

Further updates about The Beacon and recruitment opportunities will be shared in the coming weeks.