Mental Health

New Mental Health Support Service Launches in Sussex

A new mental health support service has been launched in Sussex, offering immediate assistance to individuals experiencing mental health crises. The service, known as the Staying Well service, is available seven days a week and provides an alternative to hospital Accident & Emergency (A&E) units for adults aged 18 and over.

Availability and Accessibility

The Staying Well service operates during the hours of 17:00 to 22:30 GMT on weekdays and 15:00 to 22:30 GMT on weekends. Importantly, individuals do not require an appointment or referral to access the service, which supports self-defined mental health crises, including feelings of self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

The service accepts referrals from emergency services, emphasizing its role in providing a crucial alternative to traditional emergency healthcare settings. This approach aims to improve access to mental health care for residents, offering emotional support and coping strategies to prevent the escalation of mental health issues.

Service Delivery and Support

Delivered by the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, the service is part of a broader strategy to enhance mental health support in the region. It focuses on connecting individuals to appropriate treatment programs, with counseling and therapy options available to those in need. The service also aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues, encouraging more individuals to seek help.

Collaboration with local healthcare providers is a key component of the program, ensuring that individuals receive comprehensive and coordinated care. Community outreach efforts are planned to raise awareness about the service and its benefits, further promoting mental health education and support within the community.

Alignment with National Initiatives

The launch of the Staying Well service aligns with national mental health initiatives, reflecting a broader commitment to improving mental health care across the country. The service's focus on immediate crisis response and early intervention is mirrored in the new mental health strategy launched in Rotherham, which includes plans for better crisis response services, support hubs, and a Mental Health Partnership Board.

These initiatives are part of a draft strategy currently open for feedback, with the final version expected to be adopted by 2026. The strategy emphasizes stronger support for families and caregivers, commitment to completing Care Act assessments within 28 days, and more accessible information for residents and carers. New training for staff is also included to ensure that they are equipped to provide effective mental health support.

Community Impact and Future Plans

The introduction of the Staying Well service in Sussex represents a significant step towards improving mental health care accessibility and reducing the burden on hospital A&E departments. By providing targeted support to individuals experiencing mental health crises, the service aims to prevent issues from escalating and promote long-term mental health and well-being.

As the service becomes more established, ongoing community outreach and education will play a crucial role in its success. By raising awareness and encouraging open discussions about mental health, the service hopes to foster a more supportive and understanding community environment.

“Our goal is to create a supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help for their mental health concerns,” said a representative from the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

With its focus on immediate support, accessibility, and collaboration with local healthcare providers, the Staying Well service is poised to make a positive impact on the mental health and well-being of Sussex residents.