The "Soteria" approach is being examined as a potential option for individuals experiencing extreme psychological states, often referred to as psychosis or mania.
The research study is a collaboration between individuals with lived experience of extreme states and inpatient admission, community groups, and academics.
The study is jointly led by Dr Kate Allsopp, research fellow at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH), and Rita Long, service user researcher and chair of the Soteria Network UK.
Rita Long, Service User ResearcherRita Long, Service User Researcher (Image: Supplied)
Ms Long said: "Psychosis and mania are considered to be severe mental health experiences which can include hearing voices, and believing things others struggle to manage and understand.
"The people having these experiences, their support networks, and communities, should be able to access compassionate personalised support and understanding when needed."
Almost 100,000 people are admitted to mental health inpatient services each year, with around 60 per cent of psychiatric admissions linked to psychosis and extreme states.
The Soteria approach supports people in distress in "home-like" houses in the community, with an emphasis on "acceptance, dignity, and choice".
Dr Kate Allsopp, Research FellowDr Kate Allsopp, Research Fellow (Image: Supplied)
Dr Allsopp said: "We are excited to begin this piece of research, which has co-production at its heart, and will centre the voices of people from different communities who have lived experience of extreme states and inpatient admission."
The study, sponsored by GMMH and co-led with Soteria Network UK, will explore how UK Soteria Houses could be set up.
Researchers will also interview staff from Soteria houses around the world, as well as NHS professionals, to understand the benefits, challenges, and cost of setting up a Soteria House in the UK.
Findings will be used to apply for further research grant funding to set up and trial a Soteria House in the UK.