A mental health crisis service which provides quick support for Darlington and Durham's youngsters is being hailed a success.

It has seen assessment waiting times drop as well as overnight admissions.

Now, it's about to be launched on Teesside.

The nurse led service operated by staff from Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys (TEWV) NHS Foundation Trust is based at the Rosewood Centre at West Lane hospital in Middlesbrough and also works across several other sites including the area's acute hospitals.

John Barnard, Tees CAMHS crisis and liaison project manager said:

"The aim of the service is to assess and treat children and young people with mental ill health or learning disability crisis at the earliest possible point to ensure they receive the care and support they need promptly.

"The Durham and Darlington project has proved very successful and has seen a reduction in CAMHS mental health assessment waiting times, as well as a reduction in overnight admissions and accident and emergency attendances.

"The Tees CAMHS crisis and liaison service will also bring many similar benefits and a much welcomed out of hours support to young people and their families in the Tees area."

Dr Angel Carrasco, Mental Health Clinical Lead from NHS South Tees Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said:

"Improving mental health is one of our key strategic priorities.

"We know that in our area, children and young people face tough challenges that can harm their emotional wellbeing and contribute to mental ill health.

"This crisis and liaison service is an important step forward in improving mental health services in Teesside."

In addition to providing the 24 hour assessment service The CAMHS crisis and liaison team will also work closely with partner agencies and families and carers to promote positive mental health in children and young people and offer advice and support.