Enfield opens 24-hour mental health crisis centre at Chase Farm
New service offers specialist assessment without A&E wait for north London residents
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A new mental health facility for people in crisis opened at Chase Farm Hospital in Enfield on 29 May. The service operates around the clock and provides specialist assessment without requiring patients to go through accident and emergency. North London NHS Foundation Trust runs the facility, which is located within the hospital’s Chase Building.
The Mental Health Crisis Assessment Service was created to offer a dedicated space for urgent mental health support. The trust said the environment is designed to be calm and therapeutic, reducing the pressure on emergency departments. It also aims to provide faster access to care for people in distress.
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Designed with lived experience in mind
People who have experienced mental health trauma helped shape the service. Their input influenced the design of the facility and the way staff will respond to patients. The trust said this approach ensures the service is both compassionate and practical for those in crisis.
“When I was at my lowest a service like this would have made a real difference to me and my family. With the right interventions, medical and holistic care can save lives.”
Anthony Daniel, service design contributor
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Jess Livesey, chief operating officer at North London NHS Foundation Trust, said the service reflects what modern mental health care should be. She thanked staff, service users and carers who contributed to its development. The trust described the facility as accessible and future-focused.
How to access the service
The main way to get urgent mental health support remains the NHS 111 telephone service. Callers may be directed to the new facility if appropriate. The service also accepts walk-ins and direct referrals. It is located at The Chase Building, Chase Farm Hospital, 127 The Ridgeway, Enfield EN2 8JL.
The trust emphasised that 999 should still be called for immediate physical danger, overdose or any threat to life. The new service is not intended for medical emergencies.
What happens next
The facility is now fully operational. No further approvals or funding announcements are required. The trust has not released details on how many patients the service can accommodate at once or what specific therapies will be offered. It is unclear whether Barnet residents will be prioritised or how demand will be managed if capacity is reached.
Questions this report answers
+How do I get to the new mental health crisis centre?
You can reach the new 24-hour mental health crisis centre at Chase Farm Hospital by calling NHS 111, walking in without an appointment, or through a direct referral. The service is located at The Chase Building, Chase Farm Hospital, 127 The Ridgeway, Enfield EN2 8JL.
+Who designed the new mental health crisis service?
People with lived experience of mental health trauma helped design the new crisis service and its environment. Their input shaped both the facility’s design and the way staff respond to patients in crisis.
+When did the new mental health crisis centre open?
The new 24-hour mental health crisis assessment service opened at Chase Farm Hospital on 29 May 2024. It began operating immediately and is fully available to residents now.
+What should I do if someone is in immediate physical danger?
If someone is in immediate physical danger, you should still call 999 for emergency help. The new crisis centre is not intended for medical emergencies like overdoses or threats to life.
Barnet Press News Desk
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