New community mental health service launches across Cheshire East

A new community mental health service has launched across Cheshire East, providing adults with accessible, non-clinical support in Macclesfield and Crewe.

The Link, delivered by Independence Support (ISL) and commissioned by Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CWP), is now open at two locations, with both sites already welcoming people who need support with their mental health.

The service builds on the work previously provided through Crewecial Crisis Café, which has supported people in Crewe since 2022. The Link brings that experience into a wider community-based service, while also expanding into Macclesfield with a new permanent hub at 1 Park Street.

The Link provides a welcoming space for adults aged 18 and over who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health, emotional distress, struggling to cope or looking for support before things reach crisis point.

People can talk to the team, access emotional and practical support, build resilience and take part in activities and opportunities to connect with others. The team can also provide information, advice and signposting to other local services where additional support is needed.

Accessible support within the community

The Link aims to make support easier to access for people who may be struggling with their mental health but do not require urgent clinical intervention.

There are no eligibility criteria or referral forms, and people can access the service directly by visiting either location. Professionals across health, social care and community services can also refer or signpost people to The Link where appropriate.

Since opening, the teams have started building relationships with local organisations and community partners across Cheshire East, helping to connect people with the most appropriate support for their individual needs.

Dave Appleton, Director of Nursing at Independence Support, said:

“Community-based support can make a real difference to people who may be struggling but aren't sure where to turn or what support is available to them.

“The Link gives people a welcoming place where they can talk to someone, access practical and emotional support and connect with other opportunities within their community.

“We’re really pleased to have both locations now open and already supporting people. We’re also looking forward to continuing to build relationships with local organisations and services so that we can work together to make sure people are connected with the right support for their individual needs.”

Where to find The Link

The Link – Macclesfield
1 Park Street, Macclesfield
SK11 6SR
Open daily, 10am–10pm

The Link – Crewe
108 Nantwich Road, Crewe
CW2 6AT
Open daily, 2pm–10pm

People can contact The Link on 07587 507 281 or email thelink@isl-uk.org.

If someone is experiencing an acute mental health crisis or requires urgent clinical mental health support, existing CWP crisis pathways should be followed.

About Independence Support

Independence Support (ISL) is a specialist support provider working with people across the North West to help them live as independently as possible and achieve greater choice, confidence and wellbeing.

ISL provides a range of services tailored to individual needs, including supported living, mental health support, learning disability and autism services, confidence-building and community-based support.

Through its services, ISL works alongside people, families, health and social care professionals and community organisations to provide practical, person-centred support that helps people achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives within their communities.