Local authorities have been closely involved in the modernisation of mental health services and are both providers and commissioners of services for their populations. Social services have responsibility for both the working age adult and older age adult population. Children’s services, which encompass both education and social services include responsibility for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services.

Recent new challenges for Local Authorities have included:

• the social inclusion agenda, promoting proper access to employment, education, housing, and other life opportunities

• joint mental health commissioning posts with Primary Care Trusts

• closer working with voluntary and community organisations and third sector organisations

• joint and pooled budgets

• establishment of Children’s Trusts

We have been supporting organisations through the various challenges of the mental health agenda for many years and so have extensive expertise. We have wide ranging knowledge and skills in both adult and children’s services.