“…Such an index (with higher weightings for factors that better discriminate between mild-to-moderate and severe mental health problems) could include diagnostic group, co-morbidity, chronicity, number and length of previous hospitalisations, associated functional impairment, previous deliberate self-harm and immediate safety, history and maturity of coping mechanisms, access to natural supports, and need for formal or informal care. 104 Consistent application of such a tool can shape appropriate referral behaviour over time, support caseload profiling for the purpose of ongoing peer consultation, and contribute to local needs assessment. …”