We’re proud to share our newly published study in the journal Advances in Mental Health, based on the Bexley Crisis Cafe — a community-led, out-of-hours mental health service rethinking how crisis care is delivered.

Drawing on the experiences of 81 residents, the research shows how relational, non-clinical support can provide a powerful alternative to traditional emergency pathways.

The findings directly align with national policy priorities around prevention, integrated care, and neighbourhood-based mental health support.

At its core, the study makes a clear case: crisis care must move beyond systems and into spaces built on connection, dignity, and human presence.