A new six-bedded property in a residential street in Nether Edge opened in May to offer an alternative to acute bed admission for clients whose needs can be better managed in a ‘Crisis House’ environment.

It allows service users to stay for one to two weeks and receive individualised help in a relaxing and homely environment. 

Robert Carter, NHS Sheffield CCG’s Senior Commissioning and Contracts Manager for Mental Health Services said: “We were aware that the crisis house model had been successfully adopted elsewhere in the country and were pleased that Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation Trust wanted to use this approach to meet the needs of clients, avoiding admission to a hospital bed.”  

Lisa Johnson, project manager for acute care reconfiguration at the trust, said: “The Crisis House is recovery focused and referrals come from the trusts’s community services, usually home treatment teams. It will benefit all our service users. The house offers a place for people who just need some time away from home if they are going through a difficult period.

“Once in the house, service users will continue with their care under the home treatment team or the community services, but the extra aspect it gives is that they can work with staff at the house to plan a way forward and look to getting back into the community.

“In some circumstances being admitted to hospital isn’t the best way forward or the right environment to be in – and so the Crisis House can offer an alternative.”

24-hour Helpline

A new 24-hour/seven day helpline for anyone affected by mental health issues is now up and running. It was created in response to requests from service users and can provide valuable support and signposting for both service users and carers.

The number is 0808 801 0440 and is free from mobiles and landlines.