Specialist mental health crisis centres will be opened across England over the next decade in an attempt to reduce crowding in accident and emergency departments (A&E).
Ten hospital trusts have launched pilot mental health crisis assessment centres; aiming to provide calm and suitable care for individuals experiencing mental health crises.
These centres seek to reduce A&E overcrowding and alleviate pressure on emergency services, including the police.
NHS England believes these units will improve access to appropriate care and support people more efficiently.
However, Andy Bell, CEO of the Centre for Mental Health, cautions that proper funding is essential for success and urges careful testing before national rollout.
The centres will accept walk-in patients and referrals from GPs and police, staffed by specialists equipped to handle acute mental distress.
NHS England chief Sir Jim Mackey praised the model, saying it will relieve A&E pressure and provide timely support.
However, Bell also notes that NHS mental health spending has decreased and advocates for better funding.
The government plans to expand the scheme to dozens of locations as part of its ten-year NHS plan, investing £26m in new crisis centres and staff.
Minister for Mental Health Baroness Merron says the government is transforming services, aiming to reduce waiting lists through proposed Mental Health Act reforms.
With over 60,000 people waiting 12 hours or more in A&E after a decision to admit in January, the need for effective mental health crisis care is pressing.
