Specialist mental health crisis centres are set to be introduced nationwide in England under a new NHS initiative aimed at reducing overcrowding in hospital accident and emergency (A&E) departments. The move comes as part of a wider ten-year NHS England plan to improve emergency mental health care and provide timely, targeted support.
Ten NHS hospital trusts have already piloted these mental health crisis centres, which serve as assessment hubs for individuals experiencing acute psychological distress. Unlike traditional A&E wards, these centres offer a calmer, more therapeutic environment and immediate access to trained specialists — aiming to reduce long waits and prevent hospital admissions.
Reducing A&E Overcrowding and Emergency Pressure
According to NHS England, these centres are expected to significantly ease pressure on emergency services, including police and ambulance staff, by diverting mental health patients away from already strained A&E units. Walk-in patients, GP referrals, and police-directed cases will all be accepted.
Sir Jim Mackey, NHS England’s Chief Executive, told The Times the programme represents a “pioneering new model of care”, ensuring that patients receive the “right support in the right setting”. He emphasised the benefits of quick, early intervention, helping patients access appropriate treatment while avoiding unnecessary hospital stays.
Calls for Careful Implementation and Funding
Despite widespread support, concerns have been raised by mental health advocates. Andy Bell, CEO of the Centre for Mental Health, warned against rapid national rollout without thorough testing. He stressed that mental and physical health conditions often overlap, requiring integrated approaches rather than simple separation of services.
“We need to robustly test the model at every stage before we even think about rolling it out nationally,” Bell told BBC Breakfast, urging for greater investment and caution.
He also highlighted that the share of NHS funding allocated to mental health had declined in the past year, with further reductions expected — a trend he says undermines the effectiveness of any new initiatives.
Government Commits to Long-Term Reform
As part of its broader mental health reform strategy, the UK government recently pledged £26 million for the development of crisis care centres, alongside funding for additional staff, expanded talking therapies, and shorter waiting times.
Minister for Mental Health Baroness Merron said the government is committed to “transforming” how emergency mental health services are delivered. “Too often, people in crisis are not getting the support or care they deserve,” she said, reaffirming the need for a variety of accessible treatment options.
These changes will also support proposed reforms to the Mental Health Act, aiming to deliver more personalised and comprehensive care for those with severe mental health conditions.
