A new initiative in Sussex is providing specialized mental health care at home, with the help of young people who have faced similar challenges themselves.
The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) team, led by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, is involving former service users in shaping the program. Their aim is to offer home treatment as an alternative to hospitalization for young people struggling with mental health issues.
Dr. Anna Moriarty, associate clinical director of CAMHS, explained, “Young people have told us they prefer to avoid hospital stays if possible. They want to remain close to family and friends and continue their education.”
As demand for services grows, the CAMHS team is adapting to meet the needs of young people facing significant mental health difficulties.
Evie, who spent six months in an inpatient unit, is now helping design the scheme. She believes, “Having someone my age who understands what I’ve been through would have made a real difference. It’s about improving the system for everyone.”
Dulcie, another former service user, added, “When people who have experienced these services can share their perspectives, it helps improve outcomes for everyone. I think it’s valuable to involve people who’ve been there—they truly understand what it’s like.”
The scheme represents an important step forward in offering more flexible, personalized care to young people in need.
Related Topics:
