People in England experiencing a mental health crisis will soon be able to pop into their local bank or library for a spot of professional help, thanks to a government plan that pairs the serenity of a library with the existential dread of a bank.

Ministers have unveiled plans to create a network of nearly 200 community mental health centres and mental health A&Es by 2029. The aim is to give those in crisis or significant distress somewhere to go other than the nearest A&E - because apparently, the only door open to them right now is a busy emergency department, and we all know how soothing those are.

One in five people struggle with their mental health, and thousands end up in A&E when they hit crisis point, largely because they can't find help elsewhere. The government believes its plans - which build on pilots run since 2024 - will help tackle this issue and ensure people receive expert care when they need it.

There will be 100 new community mental health centres opened in a variety of locations, from libraries and banks. Some will be in new buildings. They'll bring together existing teams of nurses, therapists, and support workers, and many are expected to be open seven days a week, with some offering short-stay bed facilities.

On top of that, the government is pledging another 59 dedicated mental health A&Es, joining the 23 already operational. Many will be attached to existing A&Es.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham, apparently not to be confused with the Greater Manchester mayor of the same name, said: "Nobody should be left to struggle with their mental health alone. But every day, thousands of people are waiting months for help, then finding the only door open to them is a busy A&E. These new centres will be a lifeline for so many." He added that they will bring NHS services closer to home, making it easier to get support before problems get worse.

Andy Bell, chief executive of the Centre for Mental Health, welcomed the announcement on the whole, though he expressed concern that the mental health emergency departments haven't been properly tested yet. He also noted that children and young people, who will be able to use these services, need their own dedicated hubs. Still, he was "delighted" the government is finally taking action after years of neglect.

Stephen Jones of the Royal College of Nursing agreed that investment in staff will be crucial if the new centres are to cope with demand. "More services closer to people's homes are a crucial step towards more humane care," he said, adding that both will need specialist mental health nurses at the centre.

The Department of Health says the initiative is backed by £343m, with the first sites opening this autumn and further facilities following from March 2027. So if you're feeling overwhelmed, just pop down to your local bank - just try not to think about your overdraft.