Mental health services report
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Healthwatch County Durham undertook research on people’s experiences of mental health services and support across County Durham, as well as the experiences of staff working in mental health services. Between July and December 2018, Healthwatch engaged with over 300 mental health service users and staff through surveys, information events, one-to-one discussions and 13 detailed case studies. The research explored access to services, waiting times, therapies, referrals, staff wellbeing and the wider impact of poor mental health.
The research found that many people delayed seeking help until they reached crisis point and often struggled to find clear information about available support. Participants reported concerns about waiting times for treatment, limited support while waiting for therapy, and difficulties accessing higher levels of treatment when initial therapies were unsuccessful. Many also described the impact of mental ill health on employment, relationships, finances, memory and concentration, with debt identified as a common issue that often worsened mental health problems.
Mental health charities, support organisations and service users highlighted the importance of non-clinical support alongside therapy, but felt services were not always well connected. Staff reported pressures associated with high caseloads, workload demands and stress, although many also described supportive teams and positive workplace initiatives. Healthwatch found a strong desire for better partnership working between NHS services, GPs, charities and community organisations to provide more joined-up support.
Healthwatch recommended improving access to information, introducing support for people waiting for treatment, offering appointment reminders, providing direct access to debt and advocacy services, increasing flexibility in therapy provision, and improving awareness of community-based mental health support. The report also recommended greater support for staff wellbeing and stronger collaboration between NHS services, GPs and voluntary sector organisations to help people access the right support earlier and prevent relapse.