Our Mental Health Outreach Team
It’s Mental Health Awareness Week. A good time to celebrate the volunteers and staff of the Citizens Advice Epsom & Ewell Mental Health Outreach Team.
Since 1995 they have managed a valued service across E&E, Reigate & Banstead, Mole Valley and Tandridge.
Our MH team are trained and skilled to help people with severe and enduring mental health problems. Their clients may have schizophrenia, bipolar, severe depression or anxiety; or face imminent crisis and need special advice and representation.
We help people who have difficulty in getting advice in the normal way. We provide support, information and advice, meeting the client in hospital or a community setting.
We work with third parties, arguing the client’s case. We liaise with hospitals, community mental health teams and the client to keep an accurate picture of the situation. Understanding the health issues is paramount.
Mostly it’s specialist case work. But it can also involve helping people obtain benefits or information about rights and options for debt or housing.
An important aspect is to challenge unjust decisions through preparation and presentation of advocacy at tribunals. This work has a direct impact on their financial security. The benefits and rights they obtain typically support life’s essentials – an income or a home – vital for emotional well-being.
We aim to help clients feel financially stable and able to live independently. Many say they feel more confident, less stressed and have better mental health.
If you need our help or you know someone that does, please contact us here. All our work is free and completely confidential. We are grateful to our funders for their support in providing this service:
