Can we help?
Washington Mind offer a wide range of mental health services to those living across the City of Sunderland, Washington and the Coalfields aged 11 years +.
Who can make a referral?
We operate an open referral system; this means that we can accept referrals from the person who needs support, a friend, relative, or a professional (as long as permission has been received from the person who needs support). Referral can be made either over the telephone, in writing, via email or text.
How can I make a referral?
You can refer to the single point of access yourself, you do not need to go through your GP or another professional. You can make your initial referral over the telephone by calling Sunderland Psychological Wellbeing Service on: 01915665454 or via their website’s online referral form here.
For young people’s referrals and support, click here to visit our Young People’s Project page.
If you are unsure about any part of this referral process, please give us a call on: 01914178043.
The initial assessment
You will receive a phq9 and gad7 from to complete, either via post or email (whichever your preference), this is the initial part of your assessment and will give the counsellor who undertakes this for you an idea of how you are at the moment. When we receive this completed form, you will receive a call offering you an appointment the final part of your assessment.
What Happens During the Assessment Appointment?
Most assessments take place over the telephone, although face to face appointments are available upon request (you will wait a little longer for this to be arranged). The Counsellor you speak to will ask a little more about you and why you require support from Washington Mind. Future appropriate services will be agreed with you. If Washington Mind is not the most suitable service to meet your current needs, this will also be discussed and a referral to a more appropriate service will be made with your permission.
What happens next?
If you require counselling you will be added to our waiting list and you will be contacted when an appointment is available.
If you require some social support sessions, which will get you out of the house, meeting new people and taking part in therapeutic activities, our Community Engagement Worker will get in touch with you by phone to discuss this.