How one Lambeth man turned mental health crisis into new purpose
Lambeth Together has published a new real‑life story illustrating the life‑changing support offered by the Evening Sanctuary at Mosaic Clubhouse— a community service commissioned by the Living Well Network Alliance for Lambeth residents. The story is being shared as the Alliance prepares to present its annual report at the February public Board meeting, offering a timely reflection on how community‑based mental health services are preventing crises and reducing pressure on emergency care.
The story follows Marcus, who sought help from the Evening Sanctuary during a period of acute distress and avoided returning to A&E through timely, compassionate support.
This year’s Living Well Network Alliance progress report highlights growing pressure on crisis services. The report shows a 53% increase in introductions to the Crisis Outreach Service, rising from 242 to 370 in 2024/25. 2024/25 saw a 12% increase in the number of mental health referrals to the Mental Health Liaison Team at St. Thomas’ A&E compared with the previous year, a 76% increase since the Alliance began in 2018/19. And the Evening Sanctuary service had 1,468 visits in 2024/25, 839 of these visits specifically avoided an A&E attendance. This demonstrates the ongoing need for accessible community‑based support for mental health crisis, a key priority in the NHS 10‑Year Plan.
Guy Swindle, Deputy Director for the Living Well Network Alliance said: “Stories like Marcus’s remind us why crisis alternatives such as the Evening Sanctuary are essential. They offer dignity, calm and human connection at a time when traditional emergency settings may feel overwhelming. With crisis presentations rising locally, these services play a critical role in preventing hospital admission and helping people stay well in the community.”
Chris Thomas, Chief Executive of the Mosaic Clubhouse said: “The Sanctuary is designed to be a welcoming environment which gives people time and space when they need it most. We’re proud to contribute to Lambeth’s wider community‑based mental health offer and to see our impact reflected in this year’s report.”
Join the conversation: Lambeth Together Board Meeting to discuss mental health support
As the Alliance presents its annual report to the public Board meeting, partners will reflect on the continued importance of crisis‑prevention services and the value of strong community alternatives to emergency care.
The meeting takes place on Thursday 5 March 2026 from 2pm at Brixton Tate Library and anyone with an interest in health and care in Lambeth is welcome to attend. There’s also a public forum at 1pm beforehand where residents are invited to come and listen or pose a question to the board. Read the agenda and meeting papers.
Read the Living Well Network Alliance Progress Report
For more information about their achievements in 2024-25 read the Lambeth Living Well Network Alliance Progress Report 2024-25