The Mental Health Outreach Team is a specialist NHS service supporting adults in Portsmouth who are living with mental illness alongside substance use (co-occurring conditions).
We are a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals who work collaboratively with local services to ensure individuals receive the right support for both their mental health and substance use needs.
Our aim is to provide holistic assessment and targeted support, helping people access appropriate treatment and improving overall wellbeing
What we do
We offer routine, holistic mental health assessments for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use needs. Following assessment, we will:
- Identify your individual needs and goals
- Provide advice and guidance on support options
- Connect you with appropriate services, which may include:
- Medication reviews
- Psychological assessment
- Therapy or structured interventions
- Work in partnership with services such as:
- Society of St James
- Adult Mental Health Services
- Assessment to Intervention (A2i)
- Crisis Resolution Home Treatment (CRHT)
- GP practices and other local providers
Where appropriate, we can also make onward referrals to other services better suited to your needs. In some cases, following assessment, we may determine that another service is more appropriate and will guide you accordingly.
Accessing the service
Referrals are made through the Society of St James. Your Recovery Worker will complete the referral on your behalf.
You may be eligible if you:
- Are aged 18 or over
- Are experiencing a severe and enduring mental illness
- Are also using substances (drugs and/or alcohol)
- Are currently engaged with the Society of St James services
How to find us
Mental Health Outreach Team
Society of St James
44–46 Elm Grove
Southsea
PO5 1JG
Contact information
Tel: 0300 123 3921
Out of hours
Opening Times
Monday to Friday: 9am - 5pm
Extended hours: Evening appointments available on Tuesdays and Thursdays
Closed on bank holidays
Key links
View our leaflet for more information.
What to expect
Once referred:
- We aim to offer an appointment within 4 weeks.
- Your initial assessment will last around 60–90 minutes.
- You are welcome to bring family members or friends for support.
During the assessment:
- You will be asked a range of questions about your mental health, wellbeing and substance use.
- Some questions may feel personal, but they help us understand how best to support you.
- There may be times we speak with you one-to-one.
After your appointment:
- A written assessment will be produced.
- You can request a copy of this document.
- It will outline what was discussed and any recommended next steps.
We value feedback from patients, carers and families to help improve our services. After your appointment, you will receive a text message with a questionnaire - we encourage you to complete it and share your experience.