Launch of Shout, UK's First 24/7 Mental Health Text Service

In May 2019, Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, joined Prince William, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, in launching “Shout,” the United Kingdom’s first 24/7 mental health text messaging support service. The initiative was developed through the Royal Foundation, the primary charitable organization for the two royal couples at the time. “Shout” was designed to provide free, confidential support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges or crisis situations. Modeled on the U.S.-based Crisis Text Line, the service allows users to text the word “SHOUT” to 85258 to connect with trained volunteers. The platform was created to offer an accessible alternative to phone-based helplines, particularly for those who may feel more comfortable communicating via text. The Royal Foundation provided a £3 million grant to support the development and launch of the service. In the months leading up to its introduction, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle engaged with volunteers, mental health professionals, and project teams to understand the operational structure and user needs. During the launch, Prince Harry emphasized the importance of reaching individuals who might not otherwise seek help through traditional channels. The launch of “Shout” formed part of the broader Heads Together campaign, a mental health initiative established in 2016 to reduce stigma and promote open conversations about mental well-being across the UK. The service represented an expansion of these efforts into digital support, reflecting changing communication preferences and increasing demand for accessible mental health resources.