Single Point of Access (SPA)

Introduction to Single Point of Access (SPA)

The Single Point of Access acts as the central hub for under 18's mental health services across Newcastle and Gateshead. This service was formerly known as CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service).

They are a caring service, committed to giving you the best support. They manage non-emergency referrals for: 

  • children's and young people's mental health services
  • local voluntary sector organisations

The SPA team includes people from many different professions. They make sure children, young people and families receive the right support at the right time. Their focus is:

  • finding the right service to refer you to
  • pointing you toward other useful services
  • giving advice

What Single Point of Access can help with

There are many things the service can support you with. But sometimes people go to them when another service would be better. This is not always a bad thing as they may be able to refer you to the service you need. So, it is still better to ask if you are unsure.

To help you, they have made a list of the most common reasons people contact SPA.

5 things SPA can help you with:

  • review your referral to find the best options for you
  • give advice and guidance for professionals, families, carers and young people
  • point you toward other services, if specialist mental health support isn't needed
  • arrange mental health assessments
  • work with schools, GPs, and other agencies to ensure joined up care

5 things other services can help you with

  • SPA do not provide therapy or counselling sessions but they can refer you to someone who does
  • crisis intervention or emergency mental health support - please contact 999 or local crisis teams
  • adult mental health services - they only support those under age 18
  • long term support - they only assess you and refer you to the right support
  • diagnosis of neurodevelopmental conditions except ADHD and autism but they can help you find a service that doe

The Single point of access will offer clinical advice and/or move the referral to the most appropriate service:

  • getting help services
  • emotional wellbeing team
  • North East counselling
  • Children's North East
  • Kalmer counselling
  • Barnados
  • or the Getting more help service CYPS

Make a referral

Who can make a referral?

A professional who works with a child, young person or their family can make a referral. This includes professionals like teachers, GPs, social workers and health visitors. You can also refer yourself.

How to make a referral

There are 2 ways to make a referral:

  • in writing, by letter addressed to Bensham Hospital, Fontwell Drive, Bensham, Gateshead, NE8 4YL or by email: [email protected]  
  • by telephone to the Single Point of Access - 0303 123 1145 open Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm

Find out more on the NHS Children and Young People's Service website (opens new window).