COASTGUARD and lifeboat volunteers, police and paramedics were called after two women were seen near Walney Channel.

Furness Coastguard was paged at 4.55am this morning to reports of two despondent females at the Dock Museum, Barrow.

The team mustered quickly and donned all water rescue kit in case the women were to enter the water.

Barrow Lifeboat also provided safety cover in the harsh conditions and both teams were stood down at 6.30am when police officers got the two women to safety.

Millom Coastguard Rescue Team and North West Ambulance Service were also tasked to assist.

Useful helplines and websites

Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.

Childline (0800 1111) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won’t show up on your phone bill.

PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is a voluntary organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal.

Depression Alliance is a charity for people with depression. It doesn’t have a helpline, but offers a wide range of useful resources and links to other relevant information. http://www.depressionalliance.org/

Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts. Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying. http://studentsagainstdepression.org/

The Sanctuary (0300 003 7029) operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year, for people who are struggling to cope - experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks or in crisis.