The NHS has today opened its first 24/7 neighbourhood mental health centre in Tower Hamlets, East London, bringing a major milestone in the delivery of the Government’s 10 Year Health Plan.
The new centre offers walk-in support for people with serious mental illness and marks a bold shift toward community-based, round-the-clock mental health care.
The Tower Hamlets centre is the first of six new neighbourhood mental health hubs set to open across England this year. These centres will bring together crisis services, community mental health teams, short-stay beds, as well as housing and employment support.
People with conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder can walk in without an appointment and receive support from a team that includes psychiatrists, peer support workers, voluntary sector staff, and people with lived experience.
The centres are designed to provide continuity of care, ensuring patients are supported by the same trusted team throughout their recovery. They will also host local authority, faith, and community organisations, creating a truly integrated support network.
Claire Murdoch, National Mental Health Director at NHS England, said:
“We know that for people with serious mental health problems it can be daunting to seek help, and people can be overwhelmed by the different teams they come into contact with.
“That is why the NHS has been determined to make mental healthcare as easy as possible. The ‘one-stop shop’ approach will mean that people can get the care they need closer to home and at an earlier stage, with treatment in a comfortable environment.
“Whether someone needs help with their mental health, housing, or work, they’ll find help in their community, around the clock, and without the need for a referral.
“I would encourage anyone struggling with their mental health to come forward for care either by contacting their GP, NHS 111 or visiting their local neighbourhood centre.”
This initiative builds on other NHS mental health reforms, including:
- 24/7 psychiatric teams in every A&E
- Dedicated mental health emergency departments
- Nationwide mental health crisis helplines
In addition to Tower Hamlets, centres will open in Whitehaven, York, Sheffield, East Birmingham and Lewisham
These locations reflect a mix of inner-city and rural communities, ensuring the model is tested across diverse settings.
Image credit: iStock
