It gives me pleasure to support an initiative aimed at improving the understanding and management of psychiatric disorders. The aim of this inaugural issue of the new journal Cutting Edge Psychiatry in Practice is precisely that in relation to schizophrenia. It is an unusual initiative in bringing together GPs and psychiatrists to consider the topic together. The concept is to provide up-to-date information in a way that is of practical value to GPs and psychiatrists in training. The range of topics covered is broad: from epidemiology, diagnostic problems and childhood schizophrenia through to treatment resistance and long-term management issues. I hope that those who read these papers will find them not only interesting and enlightening but also of great practical value in managing a condition that often remains challenging. Professor Sir Robin Murray.