A DIRECTORY of mental health services available in the county is available for the first time ever.

There are 120 of them and they are listed in the 200-page 'Directions' booklet, which is now being circulated.

It is published by the Herefordshire Mental Health Forum in partnership with a host of other organisations whose work touches on mental health problems.

More than 4,000 copies of 'Directions' are immediately available providing valuable information to patients, their families or professionals who want to know what services are available.

It includes contact details of each service, whether provided by statutory or voluntary sectors. There is also a step-by-step guide on how to get the right help in emergencies.

'Directions' has been funded by Ruralminds in the aftermath of the foot and mouth crisis and there is particular emphasis on services available to people living in rural areas.

The information guide is available from GP surgeries, libraries, schools, colleges and a range of other outlets.

A copy can also be obtained from Herefordshire Mind through its extensive county network, from its office at 26a, St Owen Street, Hereford, or by telephoning 01432 271643.

The agencies that co-operated with Herefordshire Mental Health Forum in producing the guide are: Herefordshire Mind, Herefordshire NHS Health Informatics Service, Herefordshire Carers' Support, Rural Stress Support Network, Manic Depressive Fellowship and Ruralminds.