What we need during admission – perspectives on improving the CAMHS inpatient admission processes

Purpose Admission to a specialist Children and Young People’s Mental Health Services (CAMHS) inpatient unit is a pivotal moment in a young person’s care journey, often accompanied by intense emotional distress for both the individual and their family. While some existing practices – such as ward visits, the involvement of experts by experience and affirming communication – support trust and orientation, substantial inconsistencies and challenges remain. Families often experience the early stages of admission as being chaotic, especially during out-of-hours or crisis scenarios, leaving them unable to process lengthy or complex materials. Key concerns include safety protocols, ward routines, specific staff roles and access to advocacy and emotional support. Current pre-admission materials were often viewed as inaccessible due to dense text, formal language and a lack of inclusive formats. Design/methodology/approach The purpose of this study is to investigate the pre-admission information that is provided to young people and parents across eight CAMHS inpatient units. Using a mixed-methods approach, including qualitative focus groups and quantitative survey data, the research identifies critical strengths and gaps in how information is provided prior to admission. Findings To address these issues, the study proposes a series of actionable recommendations: the inclusion of a “Quick Key Information” page in welcome packs, a modular structure tailored to each phase of the admission journey, audience-specific booklets for young people, carers and siblings, and materials available in varied, accessible formats such as easy-read, infographics, videos and audio. Additional recommendations include clearer definitions of medical terms, regular updates to FAQs and proactive signposting to advocacy and emotional support services. Originality/value This research emphasises the need for emotionally supportive and practical communication tools. By prioritising family inclusion, accessibility and clarity, providers can create compassionate environments, build trust and improve engagement and recovery outcomes. This work calls for a cultural shift, recognising families as active partners in care rather than passive recipients.