Rationale
For a referrer, there are likely to be a number of options available locally to make a referral. If good quality referral information is provided by local services, service users can access the most appropriate services. Referral criteria are a way in which the quality of information for a potential service provider can be improved. Referral algorithms allow service users to be signposted to the most appropriate service and help reduce the waiting time.

A referral management system is important to enable prompt and accurate identification of service user needs, urgency and a preliminary assessment of risk.

Examples of evidence required to meet standard 9:
- Referral protocol (paper or electronic)
- Referral guidelines
- Referral algorithm
- Operational policy for CMHT or mental health services
- Triage assessment tools
- Information on local services/local care providers