Schizophrenia Ireland gives guarded welcome to new monitoring group
Monday, 13 March 2006 17:50
Schizophrenia Ireland's national director, John Saunders, said the setting up of the new group would help to build confidence that the needs of service users are now being taken seriously at the highest levels. ‘However, we are concerned by the decision to include just one mental health service user. It could make it difficult to ensure that the views of a majority of service users are well represented. That said, we look forward to working closely with it and others to ensure the people we represent get a fair deal', he said.
Schizophrenia Ireland was one of the organisations that sat on the steering group, which drew up the new blueprint for mental health services. In its report, ‘A Vision for Change', the Expert Group called for a major shake up of the organisation and delivery of mental health services. It also wants to see a person-centred, recoveryoriented, team-driven, community-based approach to mental health and mental illness.
The Expert Group has called for the creation of a nationwide network of Community Mental Health Teams, which will form the backbone of a reorganised mental health service. The idea is that each team will have all the specialist expertise and support it needs to be able to deliver services as close as possible to the user.
Over 1,800 new frontline posts will be needed, as will an additional ‘796m in capital funding, and an extra ‘21.6 million in current funding every year for at least seven years.
ENDS
Note for Editors:
Schizophrenia Ireland is the national organisation dedicated to upholding the rights and addressing the needs of all those affected by schizophrenia and related illnesses, through the promotion and provision of high-quality services, and working to ensure the continual enhancement of the quality of life of the people it serves.
Further Information: John Saunders, Director, Schizophrenia Ireland
Tel. (01) 860 1620 and (087) 927 1292