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Aim Youth with both intellectual disability (ID) and mental health (MH) disorders (dual diagnosis) have complex physical and MH needs that can make providing integrated care for this complex group challenging. We conducted a mixed methods needs assessment to identify gaps and challenges in care delivery, identify bridges for these and identify what works well in existing services. Methods Our research team recruited service providers (n = 126) caring for youth aged 14–24 years with a dual diagnosis in the Illawarra Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, Australia, to participate in focus group interviews. Data were transcribed and analysed thematically. Results We identified six themes related to caring for youth with dual diagnosis in regional areas: access to services and information about services, communication between service providers and with clients and carers, the divide between MH and ID, early intervention and health promotion, capacity building of service providers and capacity building of clients and carers. Across these themes, service providers highlighted the transition from child to adult services as a particularly challenging time for clients, families and carers. Conclusions Our data suggest several approaches to break down silos and to facilitate collaboration between current services for youth with a dual diagnosis, including increasing specialised ID/MH services and building the capacity of current disability and MH service providers. Our results provide important information to provide quality and integrated care for youth with complex health needs.

Objective: This study sought to improve: (1) knowledge of child development among non-health child and family workers; and (2) identification and referral of children from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds at developmental risk, by partnering child health services with nongovernment early childhood education and family support services in two suburbs with high numbers of families from CALD backgrounds. Background:Children from CALD backgrounds have increased risk of developmental problems going undetected prior to school entry, thereby missing early intervention. Study design and methods:This was a quality improvement project. The model comprised:(1) co-locating a child and family health nurse CAFHN in a non-health setting or visits by early