This paper outlines current developments in a local health service in Ireland. It involves the integration of its mental health and addiction services, within the context of a primary, community and continuing care (PCCC) setting. The paper describes how the transformational process was initiated and how the clinicians embraced the opportunity of the co‐location of services to advance the assessment and treatment of dual diagnosis.

Purpose -The paper aims to describe and discuss the development of a new and innovative community based mental health service. Design/methodology/approach -The paper demonstrates how a team developed its ethos, formed links and provided leadership in establishing a socially inclusive community model of mental health care provision in a suburban area of Cork City, Ireland. Key factors which influenced and facilitated the development and implementation of the initiative will be highlighted, including demographic details of the local area, the results of the internal audit, the resource implications, and the collaborative style of the team. The change model used by the team used will be briefly outlined. The key processes and outcomes will be described, discussed and reflected upon. Findings -Flexible, creative and collaborative leadership qualities, together with a good appreciation of knowledge of local communities, can create positive synergies in establishing effective relationships across diverse groups in developing a socially inclusive community mental health service. Originality/value -This paper adds value to appreciating and understanding the wealth of social capital in local communities in fostering community mental health care integration across diverse groups.