The first 24\/7 \u2018neighbourhood mental health centre\u2019 announced in the\u00a010-year plan has now opened in London. <\/p>\n
Earlier this month, the Government pledged to \u2018transform mental health services into 24\/7 neighbourhood care models\u2019 as part of the NHS 10-year plan<\/a>. <\/p>\n Now NHS England has announced that the first of six neighbourhood mental health centres \u2013 which will largely be run by NHS trusts \u2013 has opened in East London. <\/p>\n It will bring together community mental health services, including crisis services, community mental health services and short-stay beds and will be run by East London NHS Foundation Trust. <\/p>\n Patients with serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia or bipolar, will be able to walk in without an appointment if they need support, or advice on employment, housing or volunteering. <\/p>\n NHS England added that the six centres will be staffed by a team that includes psychiatrists, mental health professionals, peer support workers and voluntary sector staff. <\/p>\n More mental health centres to open<\/p>\n The other five centres are set to open in:\n<\/p>\n Source:<\/strong> NHS England\n<\/p>\n Primary care minister Stephen Kinnock said:\u00a0\u2018Our landmark 10-year health plan committed to transforming mental health services into 24\/7 neighbourhood care models. <\/p>\n \u2018We are hitting the ground running by already opening the first mental health centre, shifting care out of hospitals and into the community and bringing care closer to home where people feel most comfortable and supported.\u2019 <\/p>\n NHS England national mental health director Claire Murdoch said: \u2018We know that for people with serious mental health problems it can be daunting to seek help, and people can be overwhelmed by the different teams they come into contact with. <\/p>\n \u2018That is why the NHS has been determined to make mental healthcare as easy as possible. The \u201cone-stop shop\u201d approach will mean that people can get the care they need closer to home and at an earlier stage, with treatment in a comfortable environment. <\/p>\n \u2018Whether someone needs help with their mental health, housing, or work, they\u2019ll find help in their community, around the clock, and without the need for a referral.\u2019 <\/p>\n\n