South Warwickshire GP Federation is leading the delivery of a mental health support project for young people on behalf of the South Warwickshire Place Partnership.
The challenge
Data analysis identified a cohort of young people aged 12-19 who repeatedly accessed A&E and primary care due to mental ill health. The PCNs identified with highest need were Stratford Central PCN and Leamington North and South PCNs. Although several services exist to support young people with mental ill health, wait times can be lengthy and options confusing. More help is needed to understand and navigate these services based on individual health needs.
Piloting a new approach
South Warwickshire Place Partnership is funding a pilot Children and Young Persons Mental Health Care Coordination (CYPMHCC) service staffed by specially trained care coordinators, to:
- Understand the individual’s health needs and complete a mental wellbeing baseline using the ShortWarwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (SWEMWBS) score
- Work through tools and resources to help individuals manage their mental health
- Provide up to six sessions of support while waiting to access to specialist services
- Signpost young people and their families to other sources of support
Eligible patients work through a series of tools and guidance, reviewing progress throughout.
Impact to date
- 129 eligible patients identified across the 3 PCNs based on (12-19 years with a RISE referral in the previous 18 months)
- SWEMWBS scores improved by 3-5 points for discharged patients.
- Patients reported reduction in negative feelings, improvements in willingness to go to school, manage anxiety and see friends.
Referral criteria have now been expanded to help more young people prior to a RISE referral.
Take a look at our overview for more details:
The project has been made possible thanks to funding, collaboration and partnership working across the South Warwickshire Place Partnership.