Long Term Plan Suffolk and North East Essex Report
Download (PDF 145.2 KB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Suffolk conducted an investigation in partnership with voluntary and community sector organisations as part of the NHS Long Term Plan (LTP) network-wide project. They investigated mental health service delivery and provision in the area using online surveys and engagement events gathering feedback from 768 respondents.
The report found that people experienced difficulties in accessing services, often with long waiting times. Service users and carers both said that they would like to receive more support from professionals in the community. Service users, carers and professionals reported that they would like better information about what services are available and how to access services. Service users and carers highlighted that follow-up appointments and more support following a crisis or discharge should be provided. Service users and carers commonly stated that they wanted effective mental health treatment and for their care to be tailored to their personal needs. Carers feel that they do not receive any support nor are they involved in their cared for person's treatment. Service users and carers said that they used or would find apps, websites and social media useful to support them with their mental health and wellbeing. Better mental health support in schools was needed, where counselling and training for staff could be offered.