The Camberwell Assessment of Need (CAN) is a tried and tested approach to assessing the needs of the severely mentally ill. Rigorously developed by staff at the Section of Community Psychiatry (PRiSM), Institute of Psychiatry, it records both staff and patient assessments. Three versions are included, all designed to be photocopied. The full clinical research versions give a comprehensive assessment, and a short (one page) version (CANSAS) is suitable for routine clinical use. Also included are materials and instructions for a half-day CAN training workshop. The CAN is suitable for use in primary care settings, specialist mental health teams, and social services. It will be of particular interest to care managers and mental health staff who wish to meet the legal requirement that the severely mentally ill receive a comprehensive needs assessment.