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Staff in Mersey Care’s mental health services are working with voluntary organisations to try and support you with issues that we're unable to, like offering advice and support around loneliness and isolation, or building your confidence.
We're working with organisations close to where you live that might be able to offer support and will help you recover.
What are VCFSE organisations?
VCFSE are Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise organisations. They provide different types of support in local communities. They might offer services for a specific age group, or a specific need that you might have, or to help you to be well.
There might also be opportunities to meet people in your area but only if, and when, you feel comfortable to do so. The organisation will arrange to have a chat with you, either face to face or by phone. They’ll get to know you, work out what interests you, and how they can help. They’ll work with you to make a plan that you feel comfortable with and best supports you.
Why have I been referred?
Your key worker in your community team has identified an organisation which can offer you support that their team doesn’t offer. Your community team will still support you. The aim is to support you to recover in the parts of your life that might be affecting your mental health.
What will I be offered?
This will depend on what matters to you. You’ll meet one of the team, either face to face or on the phone, to work out how they can support you. This might be one to one support, group sessions, opportunities to learn new skills, or meet others who may be in the same situation as you.
You don't have to take up this offer. We need your consent before a referral is made. If you're happy to do so, referrals will be made with only relevant information shared. VCFSE organisations will share information with Community or Recovery Teams about what you do with them, including any good or not so good changes in your condition.
For further information, please see Mersey Care’s privacy notice or speak to your key worker or VCFSE contact.
Will I be discharged from my community or recovery team?
Your team will offer you the best support to help improve your mental health and recovery. Discharge plans will be discussed with you and your care team as part of your reviews.
Will this affect my benefits?
Being referred to VCFSE organisations will not affect your benefits. The health care system is trying to support you in the best way towards your recovery.
Our patients matter
Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust listens andresponds to patients and their carers to help improve the services we deliver.
If you have any comments, compliments or concerns you can speak with a member of staff or contact our Patient Advice and LiaisonService (PALS) and Complaints Team.
Telephone: 0151 471 2377Freephone: 0800 328 2941Email: palsandcomplaints
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Approval date: 15 July 2025
Review date: 15 July 2026
Version number: 1
For more information about volunteering at the Trust, please read our webpage.