Substandard ward environments and problems getting beds and intensive care for acutely unwell patients are key issues blighting mental health services that would not be tolerated in other parts of the NHS, the Care Quality Commission has warned.
The findings, included in the regulator’s State of Care 2013-14 report, come from an analysis of themes identified from the inspections of 12 mental health trusts assessed under a revised inspection model launched last year.
It is good news that the chief medical officer, Dame Sally Davies, has turned the spotlight on mental health in her latest report. She is right to argue for a big drive on public mental health.
There is already some great practice out there. I would urge Davies to take a trip to Sandwell to find out how and why the area is doing so well on violence reduction and reducing levels of depression.
Earlier this month, I travelled to Sandwell and Dudley to find out for myself. The answer is not rocket science, it is all about relationships. Focusing on building relationships helps people to become more resilient and capable.
Sandwell’s approach to mental health and wellbeing is all about recognising and developing people’s relational assets and never turning people away.
