The Crisis Resolution Home Treatment team (CRHT) provides comprehensive care and support to individuals experiencing acute mental health difficulties in the community. It offers a same day assessment and provides an alternative to hospital admission by providing intensive intervention in the community. In case of hospitalisation, the CRHT can assist in minimising inpatient stay.

Handsworth and Ladywood are two major residential areas in Birmingham with high level deprivation and a population of approximately 9000. The study reviews the completeness and efficacy of CRHT intervention.

The study retrospectively examined 100 consecutive referred case notes during June and July 2008. That period was about four months prior to the start of the study which provided enough time for the completion of a home care episode. Data was gathered and assessed statistically.

62% of referrals were assessed on the same day and 27% within one day of referrals. 11% of referrals were new to psychiatric services. Referrals were from Accident and Emergency (32%), Community Mental Health Teams (22%) and general practitioners (8%). There were three and two assessors in 60% and 100% of cases respectively. A doctor was always present for all the assessments. Eighty-three percent of the referrers were notified of the assessment outcome the same day and 14% the following day.

The CRHT provides an effective care to psychiatric patients with acute needs. The organised nature of this service reduces hospitalisation and ensures that needs of patients experiencing acute mental health difficulties are met in the community.