Blackpool Insights- views on self harm support

Healthwatch Blackpool were commissioned by Public Health Blackpool to gain a greater understanding of experiences and presentation of self-harm within Blackpool. This project began in September 2021 and ran until June 2022. Throughout this time, different modes of communication were used to undertake the engagement, which included an online survey and face-to-face conversations.  They spoke to 40 people.

Friends and family are a huge factor in providing support for people who self-harm, emphasising the importance of positive support networks. Alongside this, mental health services are beneficial in preventing self-harm. The key features of good support proposed by local people include listening and talking to someone with a non-judgemental attitude, or with someone that has lived experience of self harm. Practical support was also frequently mentioned within this, particularly focusing on a clear plan and suggesting alternatives. In terms of what people felt is missing in Blackpool, suggestions such as increased awareness and better access to mental health services were highlighted.

It was clear through conversations that Crisis Houses have been beneficial for those who shared their views. The main reasons for this included receiving harm reduction messages around self-harm and feeling comfortable there, particularly as there is someone present at all times. With that being said, raising awareness of Crisis Houses and having more Crisis House provision across Lancashire would be helpful, as some people were not aware of them beforehand or had to travel long distances. Another key theme put forward was the preference to have people with lived experience of self-harm providing direct support, whether this be via telephone or face-to-face.

A gap highlighted in current support was access to talking therapies/Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Some individuals mentioned that access to this provision needs to be quicker, including improving communication during the waiting time. In addition, assessments for eligibility should be completed prior to being placed on the waiting list, so that people can access the correct support sooner.

Mixed feedback was received regarding the text service SHOUT. Some people like this service as they prefer to text rather than talk in person, as well as having an experience whereby the responses were quick. On the other hand, others found the responses slow and ‘text book’, without any personalisation to the messages. Improvements could be made to the type of responses given, so that people feel they are being listened to and dealt with on a one to one basis.

Similarly, views on A&E and mental health services within hospital departments were varied. For Emergency Departments that have specific mental health facilities, experiences seemed to be significantly better in comparison to those who do not have a designated mental health unit. The environment, staff and activities in the mental health area allowed for a more positive experience. Despite this, the waiting time in the main Emergency Department before being transferred into the mental health assessment centre was deemed to be stressful and detrimental.

Feedback states that there is a need for mental health and self-harm to be spoken about and included within educational settings and curriculums. It is believed that this will help to reduce stigma and improve the likelihood of earlier intervention.