The Mental health services public reference group is for service users and family carers. The group was established in 2009 after we carried out a major review of mental health services in Ayrshire, which included a valuable contribution from a large number of service users and carers.
We are not a recovery group or a therapy group. We focus on giving service users and carers a voice to engage with the Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnerships to help develop and improve the mental health services provided.
We have between 15 and 20 active members and meet approximately 10 times a year for regular discussions between service users and family carers and mental health service managers and clinicians. It is also a forum for members to raise issues that are important to them, and acts as a peer support group so that each individual benefits from the combined strength and support of the group.
Our newsletter, ‘Update – Delviering Excellence in Mental Health Services’, is published periodically and is distributed throughout NHS Ayrshire & Arran, in various community organisations and to the wider Ayrshire community, letting as many people as possible know about our work. It is also circulated to the three Ayrshire Local Authorities, and the Health and Social Care Partnerships.
Now that health and social care services have been brought together, the North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership (H&SCP) is the lead body for mental health throughout Ayrshire. However, we have a pan-Ayrshire remit and give a voice to people from all parts of Ayrshire. If you feel that you would like to take part in this, or if you know someone who would, please call Geoff Coleman on the number below for a chat. We are a friendly bunch, and you will be made to feel very welcome.
Further Information
For further information please contact:
Geoff Coleman
Public Support Manager, Mental Health Services
North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership
Cunninghame House
Irvine
KA12 8EE
Telephone: 01294 317816
e-mail: Geoff.Coleman@aapct.scot.nhs.uk