Access to the majority of SAMH services is via the recognised
referral route for specific services and normally follows an
assessment by an appropriate agency to match service user needs
with the service in question. This is normally the case when
funding for the service received requires to be agreed prior to the
commencement of the service.
For example when seeking a support from a SAMH Care Home, the
individual will require an assessment beforehand by a Care Manager
to assess the need for that type of service. Individual referral
arrangements are identified within the service descriptor. This is
how the relevant funding agency monitors access to and use of the
service.
Some SAMH services accept direct referrals from people wishing
to access the service. This arrangement is normally in place for
grant funded services aimed at delivering a service to people
living in the community. This service is monitored by the funders
using contract monitoring systems through statistical returns.