As we’ve been setting up the CAMHS Crisis Line I’ve been very conscious of some of the common criticisms I’ve heard about the sort of advice given by similar services. I am determined that we don’t just become another ‘How about a bath and a cup of tea?’ type offer.

CYP calling in crisis deserve evidence-based interventions. We are really fortunate that our colleagues in the CAMHS DBT team,
Service for Complex Autism & Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorders, and the Centre for Parent and Child Support are providing ongoing training for us.

Regarding call quality, we have adapted a standardised monitoring tool that we complete which looks at certain key markers based on evidence during the call and on the clinician’s assessment. This is then used to structure our line management and weekly clinical supervision.

We are clear on the need for SU feedback but are mindful of the ethical considerations, particularly in this context. The system we are putting in place will be led by the needs of the CYP who call rather than by the organisation. This cannot just be another tick box.

We are strengthening links with SLaM’s Crisis Assessment Unit and SWLSTG’s Orchid to ensure that CYP are able to access face to face MH assessment when required. We are also liaising closely with A+Es and continue to recommend attendance there if that is what is needed.

I continue to be humbled by the CYP who take the step to access our service. Picking up that phone must be so tough. Our practice must reflect the gravity of this. It is a privilege that we mustn’t take for granted, and I am lucky to be surrounded by a team who understand that.

We have a long way to go, and I am sure there will be a lot to learn as we go forward into the coming months, but we are tirelessly committed to making it work for young people across South London. We live in strange times, but there is, I am certain, hope in the dark.