We are a specialist service for people experiencing, or at high risk of developing, their first episode of psychosis. Our service focuses on young people aged 14-35 years, but there is no upper age limit, as set out in NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines.
We aim to reduce the duration of untreated psychosis, minimise the risk of relapse and improve the prospect for recovery. You will usually remain with the service for three years to help achieve these objectives.
Our service works closely with the existing mental health services; in many cases we will provide both care co-ordination and the bulk of psychosocial interventions, while in others some specialist interventions will be provided as part of a care plan administered by another team.
In addition to providing a clinical service our team attempts to reduce the stigma associated with psychosis and promotes the need for early assessment by providing training for professionals working in health, education and other sectors, as well as the general public.