Crisis Cafe

The NHS Long Term Plan (LTP) championed the development of crisis cafes to offer an alternative approach in relation to supporting a self-defined menta health crisis that is not necessarily clinically assessed or defined. Through the provision of additional funding through the Long-Term Plan and capital investment available through 'Beyond Places of Safety' initiatives the Trust alongside partners were able to develop Crisis cafes across the CWP footprint.

The East Crisis Cafes are established within the East locality. They are a familiar resource for communities to access and are meeting the requirements of the contract in terms of agreed performance within the financial envelope.

It has been agreed to extend the current contract until 30th June 2026 in order for a competitive procurement process to be finalised.

Due to lack of resource in teams this was not achieved previously but the planning process has commenced in readiness for 1st July 2026.

The Trust recommendation is that the contract with the provider is extended as all outcomes and contractual obligations are currently being met and achieved. The provider has established and is maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders and other providers of mental health care. This includes the Trust First Response teams such as Home Treatment Team, and Crisis Line who regularly refer patients to the service.

The service is open 7 days a week from 1pm to 10pm and provides a safe, welcoming and comfortable space away from a clinical environment for people in crisis, and those seeking to prevent the onset of a crisis. The team provide emotional support, practical advice, devise safety plans and offer signposting to patients.

The cafe is viewed by professionals and public as a core part of the health and care service offer. A break in this service offer would be detrimental to the hundreds of patients who use this service every month. It is recommended this contract is extended until the competitive process is actioned by the end of this year. In parallel a competitive procurement exercise will begin.