2025 Agenda

Co-located mental health crisis havens: the next steps in crisis alternatives

11 Jun 2025
Charter 8
Mental health , Urgent and emergency care

This session explores the evolution of crisis alternatives, introducing co-located Safe Havens as the next step in non-clinical support for people experiencing a mental health crisis.

As a leading VCSE provider of Alternative to Crisis Services, Mental Health Matters will share their experience in delivering non-clinical support in a clinical landscape. They will be joined by members of the commissioning team from the NHS Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board to reflect on their journey in remodelling the urgent care pathway.

This case study from Kent and Medway, will showcase a pioneering shift with the introduction of crisis support co-located at acute hospital sites. These spaces provide immediate, non-clinical support with rapid clinical in-reach to reduce A&E attendance and alleviate pressure on statutory services.

The session will explore the impact of this service model on individuals in crisis and the broader health system. We will also discuss the key factors for success and the importance of system-wide collaboration.

Sarah Wileman
Sarah Wileman, Director of Development - Mental Health Matters
Louise Carrington
Louise Carrington, Head of MH Services - Mental Health Matters
Jacqui Davis
Jacqui Davis, Senior Programme Lead - Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board
Zoe Williams
Zoe Williams, Crisis Service Manager - Mental Health Matters