Adapting Structured Clinical Management for older adults services: An evaluation of pilot SCM group programme

Older adults with complex emotional needs (CEN) have reduced access to evidence-based psychological interventions compared with working-age adults. Worcestershire Older Adult Community Mental Health Services adapted a 24-week Structured Clinical Management (SCM) group programme to meet the unique needs of older adults with CEN. A pilot group programme was launched in Worcestershire during 2023–2024. 16 patients (aged 65+) with emotional and/or relational difficulties were invited to complete modules in distress tolerance, emotion regulation and relational skills. The pilot was evaluated using a mixed-methods design, integrating quantitative and qualitative feedback. The initial results indicate that implementing an SCM offer within older adult services may improve patient outcomes and reduce crisis service utilisation. The small sample size limits statistical inference; however, the promising trends warrant further research in this area.