Community Mental Health Teams

About the service

Community mental health teams (CMHTs) are the main point of entry for adult mental health services. We help people aged 18 or over, who have severe or enduring mental health problems. Severe or enduring mental health problems are ones that have a major impact on your ability to cope in everyday life. Our community teams include mental health nurses, psychiatrists, occupational therapists, psychologists, social workers, support workers, and carer development support workers. We can help you identify the areas you need help with, develop your strengths and work to find answers to your current problems to help you recover. You will have a named person responsible for the co-ordination of your care.

Assessing your needs

At your first visit you will see one or two members of the team. They will talk to you to identify problem areas and explore ways in which you can be helped. This interview will take about an hour. You are welcome to bring a friend or relative with you. The CMHT will write to your GP with your assessment and any plans for the future. You can also have copies of any letters.

Carers

If you care for someone who has a mental health problem you’re also entitled to an assessment of your needs, which is reviewed periodically.

Referral information

If you are worried about your own mental health you should visit your  GP, who may refer you to your local community mental health team (CMHT) if your problems are more complicated.

We accept referrals from GPs, social services and some other agencies. You may also be referred to us from another part of the Trust.

The community teams have close contacts with our inpatient wards. Every inpatient is offered support from their local CMHT when they are discharged from hospital.

Community teams – locations and opening times

Services for older people