A recent analysis on how people used services during the epidemic criticized the local mental health facilities as being “insufficient.”
medical watchdog Those seeking support for their mental health frequently highlighted concerns about access to services and how effectively they may be coordinated, according to Healthwatch.
Yet, a nearby charity claimed that after ten months of collaboration with the NHS, the situation had already begun to change.
Anybody in need of mental health care can now call Bath Mind’s “front door” at 08081 751 369. The phone line is accessible seven days a week, from 9 am to 11 pm, and calls are free.
Anyone may call that number if they have concerns about themselves or a loved one and they can just speak it through with a wellbeing practitioner, according to Bath Mind CEO Kate Morton.
“And it’s possible that we can assist them directly; alternatively, we could be able to connect them with a more useful service, in which case we’ll assist them in doing so.
Although people were positive about Bath Mind in the Healthwatch report, an issue was raised about how long it could take to be referred to them after going to hospital. Now Ms Morton hopes this will speed up the referral process.
She said: “We just need to work with them to get them into some safety plan and think about what next and how we can help.”
RUH Chief Medical Officer Andrew Hollowood said: “One of our goals is to work with our community partners to create one of the healthiest places to live and work, and so we’re delighted to be working in partnership with Bath Mind on this fantastic initiative.
“This is helping people to get the care they need in the right place and we’re already getting really positive feedback from both Emergency Department staff and patients.”
