This paper describes an implementation project to incorporate an evidence-based, structured model of relapse prevention into routine clinical practice at the Community Mental Health Team in Reading, Berkshire. This project has currently reached the end of the pilot stage, which this paper reports in details. It is proposed that clinicians will adopt Smith's Self-Management Training Manual for individuals with psychosis as a clinical tool for working with patients who have schizophrenic-form disorders or bipolar affective disorders with psychosis. Effects of the proposed change are considered from the viewpoint of the clients and families/carers, the clinicians and the service. The process of transition and its impact on members of the multidisciplinary team is examined. It includes an audit of Care Programme Approach (CPA) forms and a staff survey, which give background information on the needs for improvement and staff development initiatives. A pilot study incorporating the structured relapse prevention work into the local community mental health team is also underway. The method of evaluation and dissemination to the wider team and service settings across the organizational boundaries is reviewed with implications for practice drawn. This paper aims to describe the background and development of this ongoing development project whilst focusing on the current pilot stage. Ongoing work will be carried out in addressing and reporting the outcomes of the full project in future papers.