PRJ-980 NCL CCG Crisis Cafe Service

The provision of a crisis café service to be situated in Barnet. The anticipated value of the service is a maximum of up to £149,350 per annum and the contract duration will be for two years with an option to extend the contract by up to a further 12 months subject to funding and satisfactory performance. The contract will commence on 29th of March 2021.

Currently Barnet does not have a crisis café (out of hour's wellbeing support and resilience service). The development of such a resource into the local community that is integrated into local crisis pathways and the core community model for mental health will aim to help prevent avoidable admissions into secondary mental health acute settings and support more people to be sustained to remain well in the community.

The service being commissioned is for Barnet adult residents (including those presenting to Barnet emergency services) who perceive themselves to be in, or at risk of moving into mental health crisis. This is the defining criteria for the service and robust screening procedures will be required to ensure access and prioritisation of those in most need. Those with multiple needs and co-morbidities are to be welcomed by the service provided that the primary need is mental health crisis. Access to the service will normally be open access by self-presentation however, the service will also accept referrals where appropriate from other emergency services such as the LAS or Barnet Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Teams. The service will work closely with other services across Barnet including Adult Social Care, Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health Trust and the voluntary community sector. The service will provide a safe space for individuals in Barnet who are experiencing mental health distress/ potential crisis and it is anticipated that the service will operate as a minimum between the hours of 5pm and 10pm Monday to Friday and on weekends between the hours of 3pm and 10pm. People who access the service will gain one to one and peer support, alongside a range of other interventions. The service will offer a safe space for people to be supported to de-escalate the potential crisis they are experiencing or be assessed for other appropriate services.

The service will aim to reduce mental health inpatient admissions by providing an alternative solution for patients and an opportunity to self-manage their needs or de-escalate the potential crisis they are experiencing. The service will offer a blended approach in delivery including face to face support, support via the phone and support via digital interfaces.