Ways to refer
Before making a referral
There are different ways to refer into our services, depending on your needs and the service you are accessing. This page explains your options and how to get started.
Before you begin, it helps to have your details ready, including your NHS number where possible. This will make it easier for us to find your records and process your referral without delays.
Have your NHS number ready
You’ll need your NHS number for most referrals. Having it ready helps avoid delays.
How to find your NHS numberSelf-referral
Some services, such as NHS Berkshire Talking Therapies for Anxiety and Depression, let you or a relative contact us directly using the referral form. Check the service’s information page first, as not every service accepts self‑referrals.
How to make a referral
Step1: Identify the right service.
Step 2: See whether the service accepts self‑referral.
If the service accepts self-referrals, you will find out information on how to make a referral on the individual service page.
If the service does not accept self-referrals, you will need to book an appointment with your GP, or other healthcare professional, and arrange for them to complete the relevant referral form.
Step 3: Once the referral is received, we’ll contact you to book an assessment or your first appointment. Please check the relevant service page for details on response times.
Children and young people referrals
You can learn more about our referral process by visiting the relevant service page. For children and young people, you are able to refer using our online referral form below.
Autism and ADHD
If you are looking to make a referral for our Autism and ADHD services, you may need to provide additional information. Please visit the service page before making a referral.
Healthcare professional referrals
GP referral
The most common route. Your GP (or other primary‑care clinician) completes a referral form and sends it to our Integrated Hub.
Professional referrals
You can use our Non-GP referral form if you are not a GP, but you need to make a referral to Berkshire Mental Health Services via The Gateway and you are a:
- Health or Care professional (excluding GPs), or
- Supporting care agency, or
- Third sector
This form is only for patients aged 18 to 75 years old.
Hospital discharge referrals
If you’re in hospital, there are some clinical teams which can refer you directly to a relevant service (e.g., CARSS, cardiac rehabilitation) before you leave.