Who are we?
The Mental Health Liaison Service (MHLS) assesses and supports young people, up to the age of 18, who present in a hospital-based setting such as A&E or on physical health wards.
What we offer
The team provides specialist mental health assessments and provides continuing care to young people with mental health needs. The service strives to maximise the mental wellbeing of young people and families, and signposts to other mental health services and support networks. They provide direct links to all other LPFT services and play a key role in discharge planning for young people, supporting a smooth transition to community services.
The MHLS focuses on a more positive experience for young people and families attending A&E, offering more face-to-face support and collaborative working.
How we work
The team offers specialist support for young people at their time of greatest need and vulnerability.
Young people in A&E can access a dedicated mental health professional within an hour, either in person or via telephone (response times are 4 – 24 hours elsewhere away from A&E, depending on the level of emergency).
Referrals
Young people can access the service via a referral from staff teams within A&E or on physical health wards.