Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space (MHCBS)

If your patient is receiving mental health crisis treatment and struggling with debt, free help is available.

The Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space (MHCBS) is a statutory programme that provides people with problem debt a temporary break from the organisations to which they owe money.

Apply now
Young Couple Discussing Finances While Sitting on Couch in Living Room
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About the Service

Mental health issues and problem debt often go hand in hand. In fact, more than 1.5 million people in the UK are experiencing both.

Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space (MHCBS) is designed to relieve this pressure. By pausing most creditor action whilst receiving crisis treatment, patients can concentrate fully on their recovery.

Eligibility criteria:

  • Living in England or Wales
  • They are receiving qualifying mental health crisis treatment
  • In problem debt
Start an MHCBS Application

How to Apply and Eligibility Criteria

Applying for MHCBS is a straightforward process that can be completed using our online portal, accessible here.

You can submit an application on behalf of someone if you are a:

  • Approved Mental Health Professional
  • Care-Coordinator
  • Mental Health Nurse/Key Worker
  • Social Worker
  • Independent Mental Health Advocate
  • Independent Mental Health Capacity
  • Relevant Person's Representative.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Living in England or Wales
  • Receiving qualifying crisis treatment
  • In problem debt

If you need support, please get in touch:
E: support@mhcbs.co.uk
T: 0800 987 4110

Start an MHCBS Application
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Upcoming Events

1. Webinar 20 January 2025: MHCBS and the role of Approved Mental Health Professionals

An Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP) plays a crucial role in referring someone to the Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space (MHCBS).

We will be joined by AMHP Amrin Kerry, who will discuss mental health crisis care. She will also explain how mental health professionals can get an AMHP to sign off on the crisis care in an MHCBS referral. Amrin will share pain points AMHP might experience and how you can overcome them.

The session will end with a Q&A, where you can ask any questions you have to help you better understand the service and the role Mental Health professionals play in its delivery. 

Register for the free webinar here

Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space (MHCBS) is a partnership service delivered by We Are Group and Toynbee Hall. We Are Group is the lead delivery partner, supporting access and coordination of the service. All regulated debt advice, including all communications relating to Breathing Space Moratorium, is provided by Toynbee Hall, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).