The Single Point of Access Team (SPA) is the front door of CAMHS that receives, processes, and reviews referrals. SPA helps ensure that children and young people are directed to the most appropriate support based on their needs.

SPA will be your first point of contact if a referral is being made or if you are seeking information or support for a young person. A referral can be submitted through our online portal, or you can call the team on 01865 901 951 opt 1 and request a telephone referral. We accept referrals from parent/carer, professionals such as school or GP, or a self referral can be made providing the young person is aged 16 or over. SPA also offer consultations for anyone seeking advice.

One of our Mental Health professionals will be in contact via telephone within 4 weeks of the referral being received to complete a triage call. All contact with SPA is via telephone as we do not offer face-to-Face appointments. The triage call will take approximately 20 minutes.

The team will offer support within CAMHS or signpost the young person and their family, to the most suitable children’s mental health and wellbeing service, or to alternative sources of support, depending on individual needs. If the child has been allocated to a pathway within CAMHS, you will hear from the allocated team in due course to discuss the next steps.

Yes, there is no referral criteria meaning that you can refer a child or young person into SPA as needed. If you are unsure whether a referral should be submitted, you can call the team and ask for a consultation call where a mental health practitioner will be able to answer any questions you have and help you decide on the best course of action.