The NHS has delivered on All Age Crisis Care Commitments in the Long-Term Plan

With the successful expansion and transformation of Urgent and Emergency Care Mental Health (UECMH) services we will continue to work with the government to introduce the UECMH Waiting Time Standards (WTS). This reflects the significant progress made in delivering on the NHS Long Term Plan commitments, ensuring that robust and responsive mental health crisis services are available nationwide.

The groundwork has been laid and we are ready to build on this foundation to drive forward the implementation of these standards further enhancing access, equity and quality in urgent mental health care.

All ages

• the NHS now provides 24 hour a day 7 days a week age-appropriate mental health crisis support via NHS 111 ‘select mental health option’
• mental health responses within ambulance services have been significantly improved through joint initiatives involving mental health professionals in control rooms or on the scene

Adults and older adults

• 24 hours a day 7 days a week community-based mental health crisis response is operational across England, with intensive home treatment available as an alternative to inpatient admission.
• substantial investments have been made in crisis alternatives such as crisis cafes, sanctuaries and crisis houses. Many of these are NHS commissioned and delivered in partnership with Voluntary Care Social Enterprise (VCSE) providers
• all acute hospitals now have mental health liaison services integrated into A&E departments and inpatient wards. Over 70% of these services are commissioned to meet the Core 24 or equivalent standard for adults and older adults

Children and young people

Children and young people experiencing a mental health crisis now have access to 24 hours a day 7 days a week support via NHS 111 ‘select mental health option’, which includes crisis assessment, brief response and intensive home treatment services

Remaining areas of focus  

While the NHS has delivered on all crisis care commitments outlined in the LTP further work is ongoing to enhance the system. Over 2024/25 and beyond efforts will continue to:

• roll out Crisis Text Services - these will complement the NHS 111 ‘select mental health option’ by offering an accessible and immediate means of support helping to de-escalate crisis earlier and reduce the need for ED attendances
• newly introduced dedicated mental health response vehicles will ensure safer and more appropriate transport for individuals in crisis, reducing unnecessary conveyance to EDs and facilitating direct access to mental health services

In addition, the NHS will drive improvements in crisis alternatives, including strengthening community-based options and ensuring timely access to urgent and emergency mental health care. The integration of ambulance mental health response teams and crisis text services plays a key role in reducing length of stay (LoS) in acute settings and minimising 12-hour waits in EDs. By providing early intervention at the point of crisis these services help to prevent escalation, divert individuals from inappropriate hospital settings and ensure that those requiring admission receive timely specialised care in the most suitable environment.