Nev’s* story

How community based mental health crisis spaces are supporting people across Greater Manchester

People across Greater Manchester experiencing emotional distress or mental health crisis now have access to a network of safe, welcoming, support spaces. They offer urgent help without the need for long waits, referrals or appointments.

You can download a leaflet which contains full details of the ten services here

These services, available in each of the ten boroughs of Greater Manchester, are run by the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise sector and are funded by NHS Greater Manchester. They provide non-clinical crisis alternatives to A&E, where many people often turn in desperation. The hubs are staffed by trained peer support workers, volunteers, and mental health professionals, offering a listening ear, practical help, and where necessary, fast access to further mental health assessment.

Nev* used the crisis space, when support from his learning disability social worker, wasn’t available out of hours and he felt at risk of harming himself. Previously when this happened, he contacted the police for help or attended A&E.

Although Nev lives with his wife, young baby, and extended family he needed additional assistance. Previously Nev would ring 999 daily and was a regular attender at A&E.

After visiting the crisis space, he had a 1-1 with a staff member, used the sensory space and spoke to people in the peer group room. Nev shared his social worker’s contact details, so the crisis space team could report any safeguarding concerns.

Since accessing the service, Nev’s social care team have seen an improvement in how he is interacting with his family, and he hasn’t called the police or attended A&E in 7 months.

Nev now feels more confident to express his feelings and has fewer aggressive outbursts. The crisis space is a place where he feels supported and can return when needed.

By coming to the Listening Space I am gaining lots of support, and this helps me have a future, I Haven’t had to call the police since coming here. Nev*

*The name has been changed to protect the individual’s identity.