Service detail

The Service includes different professionals: consultant psychiatrists specialising in supporting older people, community psychiatric nurses, psychologists, occupational therapists, and recovery support workers. Patients are seen in outpatient clinics or in their own home.

Depending on needs and circumstances, patients are supported by one of the following teams, with easy transition between teams if required.

Recovery Support Team (RST):

The Recovery Support Team supports people with mental health problems such as depression, anxiety and psychosis. An initial assessment will include a discussion of the main concerns and a collaborative approach to developing an appropriate care plan. This plan will include a medication review and consideration of other interventions such as individual psychotherapy or occupational therapy.

Memory Assessment Service (MAS):  

This is a primarily a dementia diagnosis service which reviews people with concerns about their memory or cognition. A typical assessment will include the clinician taking a detailed account of the patient or carer’s concerns and undertaking an appropriate cognitive assessment. It will be considered whether further investigations such as a brain scan are recommended. Post-diagnostic treatment and support is offered if appropriate, as well as advice on maintaining brain health.

Community Behaviour and Communication Support Service (CBACSS):   

This service provides support for people with an existing dementia diagnosis who are also experiencing significant behavioural or psychological symptoms in the context of their dementia. A holistic assessment will be completed to consider possible interventions with a strong focus on psychological, social, environmental or communication strategies. Appropriate medication treatments will also be considered.  

Behaviour and Communication Support Service (BACSS):  

This service provides support for care home residents with an existing dementia diagnosis who are also experiencing significant behavioural or psychological symptoms. A holistic assessment will be completed to consider possible interventions with a strong focus on psychological, occupational, environmental or communication strategies. Clinicians work closely with care home staff. Appropriate medication treatments will also be considered.  

Dementia Clinical Nurse Specialist Service (DCNS):

This service is run by Clinical Nurse Specialists with expertise in dementia and associated issues. The service supports people living with dementia and their carers to understand and manage dementia symptoms more effectively, particularly when the person is more vulnerable or at risk of hospital admission. This support includes linking people with other local services in the voluntary or social care sectors to maintain health and wellbeing.