Mental Health Liaison (A&E): Free 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Support

## What is the Mental Health Liaison Team? The Mental Health Liaison Team provides 24-hour psychiatric assessment and support at Croydon University Hospital's Emergency Department. This specialist team, part of South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, works alongside A&E staff to ensure that people presenting with mental health crises receive expert assessment and appropriate care. The team includes psychiatric nurses, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals experienced in emergency mental health care. The liaison service bridges the gap between physical emergency care and specialist mental health support, ensuring people in crisis receive comprehensive assessment that considers both their physical safety and mental health needs. ## Who Can Use the Mental Health Liaison Team? The service is available to anyone attending Croydon University Hospital A&E with a mental health concern, regardless of where they live or whether they're registered with local services. This includes people experiencing suicidal thoughts, self-harm, severe anxiety, psychosis, or any other acute psychiatric episode. You don't need an existing mental health diagnosis or prior NHS contact. ## How Do I Access the Mental Health Liaison Team? Simply attend Croydon University Hospital's Emergency Department at 530 London Road, Thornton Heath, CR7 7YE and explain you're experiencing a mental health crisis. A&E staff will refer you to the liaison team. You can also call the department on 020 3228 0809 for advice. While the Crisis Line (0800 731 2864) is often a better first point of contact, the liaison team is there for those who need face-to-face assessment. ## What Should I Expect? The team aims to see urgent mental health presentations within one hour of referral. A qualified mental health professional will assess your needs and develop a care plan. This might involve crisis intervention and stabilisation, referral to community mental health services, admission to a psychiatric unit if needed, or discharge with appropriate follow-up support. The assessment is confidential and focuses on keeping you safe.