What to do in an Emergency?

If a child or young person presents with any immediate physical or medical concerns, they should be taken to the Accident and Emergency Department at the James Paget Hospital or call 999 for an ambulance. If it is felt that their injuries or medical concerns are a result of serious mental health or emotional difficulties, hospital staff will make an urgent referral to CAMHS. When a child or young person is medically fit, the Urgent Response clinician will arrange for family/carers or any other relevant agencies to join them in an assessment at the hospital. The clinician will particularly focus on an individual’s current mental state and any risk to self or others.

There is also 24-hour access to specialist mental health services for suicidal ideation/psychotic young people aged 12 years and above. Access is again through presentation to the A & E department at James Paget Hospital.

If there are increasing concerns regarding a child or young person’s mental or emotional well-being but there appears to be no immediate risks, parents or carers can contact the GP for an emergency appointment for further advice. The GP will immediately refer to the CAMHS service for an urgent assessment if it is felt necessary.

If any person’s working with a child or young person has immediate concerns regarding a child or young person’s emotional or mental health, they can telephone Silverwood and speak either to their Keyworker or the Urgent Response clinician, for further advice.