West Essex Dementia and Frailty Services

We are an assessment, diagnostic and treatment service for people concerned about their memory as well as people over the age of 75 with complex mental health needs.

Our service includes:

Intensive Support Team (IST) 
Provides an urgent response to people with dementia or older adults with complex mental health needs in a crisis situation to prevent an admission to either an acute hospital or a mental health ward.

Care Home Liaison
Diagnostic/support service for the care homes in West Essex

The clinical team is made up of psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, nurses and support workers. We work closely with social care colleagues and the Alzheimer’s Society.

The service can meet both short term and long term needs. Your care will be allocated to the right professional depending on your care needs. This may include care-coordination for some service users with complex mental health and physical health needs whilst living in the community or residential care.

Part of your care plan may include the following treatments:

• Rapid response to crisis situations
• Occupational Therapy
• Complex case management
• Carer assessments and support
• Psychological and therapeutic activities
• Psycho education regarding the mental health diagnosis
• Access to support and information from other agencies
• Post Diagnostic Support pathway for newly diagnosed patients with dementia including Cognitive Stimulation Therapy
• Advice on healthy living
• Physical health checks where appropriate

We support you in getting the care, treatment and help you need so you and your loved ones can enjoy the best quality of life.

Your GP or other health professional involved in your care will refer you to us via West Essex Care Co-Ordination Centre.