Central Bedfordshire Community Access Service (CAS)

We are the Community Access Service, a wide range of specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health professionals that support the wellbeing and mental health needs of children and young people. Our services are aligned with the iThrive Framework*, which consists of Giving Advice, Getting Help, Getting More Help, and Getting Risk Support.

Community-based drop-ins provide a space for families and/or young people to access CAMHS directly. The drop-in appointment will consist of a brief discussion with a CAMHS clinician, who will be able to talk with you about your concerns and advise on next steps.

This appointment is suitable for Young people and/or carers where there are concerns about a young person's mental health. It is not suitable for a crisis situation. If you have any urgent mental health concerns before your appointment, please contact 111 and select Option 2, to speak to a mental health professional.

If your main request is an ASD/ADHD. Assessment: We advise that you go via your child's school or GP for further advice.

Please note 

• This service is not suitable if you are already open to a CAMHS team or on a waiting list for CAMHS. Please contact them directly if you need to speak to someone.
• These drop-ins do not replace the CAMHS Crisis service. 
• If your child or young person is experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact 111 option 2 or visit A&E.