Government plans network of nearly 200 specialist services to help those facing mental health crises.

People in England needing immediate care for mental health problems will be able to access specialist walk-in hubs close to their home, the government is promising. Ministers have set out plans to create a network of nearly 200 community mental health centres and mental health A&Es by 2029. The aim is to give those experiencing a mental health crisis or significant distress somewhere to go to get help when they need it - with plans to open dozens of the hubs in high street locations like banks and libraries. One in five people struggle with their mental health and thousands of people turn up at A&E when they get to crisis point because they cannot find help elsewhere. The government believes its plans, which build on pilots that have been run over recent years, will help tackle this issue and ensure people receive expert care when they need it. The government said there will be 100 new community mental health centres opened in a variety of locations, from libraries and banks. Some will be set up in new buildings. They will bring together existing teams of nurses, therapists and support workers. Many of the hubs are expected to be open seven days a week and some will have short-stay bed facilities.