(updated) Community Mental Health Services Report 2024, with response from Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust

This is a report by Healthwatch Bromley. This report presents the key findings and recommendations from a comprehensive evaluation of community mental health services in Bromley. The objective was to review the quality of care and identify areas for improvement, 
to enhance service delivery and meet the diverse needs of service users.

A survey was used to capture local people's views, there were 142 responses to the survey.

Key findings:

• The majority of service users had a positive experience of community mental health services in Bromley, but some people appear to fall through the gaps and encountered difficulties such as delayed care, misdiagnosis and other barriers.
• Most service users were satisfied with the quality of care and treatment they received, but some areas require improvement.
• Service users highlighted concerns about poor communication between staff within services.
• While most respondents did not face barriers to accessing community mental health services, a significant number did.
• Some internal issues, such as the mishandling of patient data or the companions and interpreters present at appointments, were highlighted by service users.
• Some service users are reluctant to take their medication due to lack of support and scepticism over medication efficacy. 

There are recommendations in this report.

• Improve service coordination and follow-up processes to achieve seamless continuity of care and better address the needs of service users throughout their healthcare journey.
• Address issues such as long waiting lists and overlooked physical health concerns to enhance the overall satisfaction levels and effectiveness of mental health services. 
• Conduct ongoing evaluation to identify disparities in service delivery, and address them so that all individuals receive timely, effective, and compassionate support for their mental health needs.
• Prioritise regular contact, supportive interactions, and access to various therapies to contribute to meeting the diverse needs of individuals seeking mental health support.
• Provide detailed information about local transport to improve convenience reaching mental health services, enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and address language barriers by appropriate provision. Removing these barriers will mean that mental health services better meet the diverse needs of their service users and equalise access to care and 
  support. 
• Implement more personalised and effective interventions tailored to individual needs.
• Handle confidential documents and maintain patient records with care, always checking the accuracy and currency of addresses; this is critical for maintaining data integrity, patient confidentiality and the Trusts’ reputations. 
• Implement strategies to improve medication adherence by providing comprehensive education and support, clear accurate information, addressing any access barriers, and exploring alternative treatment options tailored to individual needs and preferences.

The provider has responded to the report.