Overview

• The NHS is establishing dedicated mental health A&E units across England, with the first at Ladbroke Grove providing specialist care within 10 minutes of arrival.
• These units, staffed 24/7 by mental health professionals, aim to support patients experiencing crises like suicidal thoughts, psychosis, or mania.
• Ten NHS trusts have already launched pilot crisis units, with national expansion planned under a forthcoming 10-year NHS strategy from the Labour government.
• The initiative seeks to reduce 12-hour waits and overcrowding in traditional A&Es, where mental health patients face disproportionately long delays.
• Services include comprehensive assessments and connections to community resources, addressing root causes such as homelessness, addiction, or debt.