Crisis house in Yeovil helps hundreds with mental health support without hospital stay
Alternative care model eases pressure on Somerset hospitals
A crisis house in Yeovil is providing crucial support for mental health patients, helping hundreds avoid hospital admission each year.
Located in Yeovil Town Centre, the facility run by Rethink Mental Illness operates as part of Somerset’s Open Mental Health alliance, which includes the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust as a key partner.
Offering a unique 'step-up care' approach, the six-bedded house provides short-term non-clinical care for up to seven days, with support staff present 24 hours a day.
Laura Hopkins, Operational Service Manager for Somerset NHS Foundation Trust’s home treatment service, described the facility as an alternative to a mental health ward admission.
“It was initially set up for those who don’t feel safe at home or require additional support but don’t need inpatient ward admission,” Hopkins said.
Referrals to the crisis house are made by colleagues in the home treatment service, assessing if patients would benefit from its short-term stay rather than hospital admission.
Hopkins acknowledged that patients would often end up in hospital wards due to shortages of available beds, a scenario the crisis house aims to prevent.
“It provides reassurance knowing when someone is due to leave, a bed becomes free, even if occupancy is full,” Hopkins explained.
The Importance of Community-Based Support
The crisis house offers a range of activities differing significantly from conventional hospital ward experiences.
Laura Hopkins detailed that Rethink hosts one-to-one and group activities, including mindfulness, crafts, walking, and communal Sunday lunches.
“The setting feels more social and allows connection with all Open Mental Health activities on site, which doesn’t always happen in hospital settings,” Hopkins said.
Patients maintain autonomy, responsible for their medication, using lockable boxes in individual rooms for safe storage.
Feedback from those cared for at the crisis house has been positive, highlighting the service's role in promoting independence and self-directed support.
One anonymous user noted the increased confidence in managing mental health due to the comprehensive support received.
Partnerships Enhancing Care
Collaboration is key to the crisis house’s success, evidenced by partnerships with organisations like Mind in Somerset and others.
Peer support mentors from The Foyer, operated by Mind in Somerset, work closely with Step Up colleagues, providing referrals and signposting services.
Katie Foulser, Regional Associate Director for Rethink Mental Illness, praised the facility’s compassionate support in homely settings.
“The staff provide crucial assistance in difficult times, supporting recovery journeys for those experiencing mental health difficulties,” Foulser stated.
Kamal Ali-Merkhbi, head of contracts for Open Mental Health, emphasised the housing crisis's role in exacerbating NHS pressures and highlighted the importance of collaborative services.
“Together with our partners, we’re improving this service to meet people's needs, supporting long-term recovery,” Ali-Merkhbi added.
Jack Bradford, home treatment team manager in East Somerset, commented on the varied support available within the community, beyond NHS services.
“There are lots of charities and organisations offering valuable resources which can be part of a person's safety toolkit,” Bradford said.
The crisis house's capacity to support 200 individuals annually offers potential to expand its reach, with increasing awareness and referrals noted by Chris Cooper, Step Up Service team leader.
“Knowledge of referral routes is crucial; service usage has increased, and we aim to aid more people in accessing care,” Cooper commented.