A study is getting under way to see if adults in West Norfolk are seeing changes and improvements in the mental health care they receive.
Healthwatch Norfolk has been asked to talk to both patients and their loved ones to see if they have noticed improvements in their community health care.
It follows a partnership between the NHS, councils, charities, and community organisations to make sure the needs of adults with mental health conditions are better met, and this study aims to evaluate this.
Healthwatch Norfolk is keen to hear from those who are 18+ and severely affected by mental illness particularly if they have psychosis, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, an eating disorder, severe depression, or a mental health condition which needs rehabilitation.
In addition, there is a second survey aimed at carers and families of adults severely affected by mental illness, so the study gets a well-rounded picture.
It particularly wants to know about:
- Whether people feel included when their care is planned and delivered.
- When those important to the patients including family, other loved ones, and advocates, are consulted.
- How effective the mental health team are in the community helping patients with areas like housing, benefits and seeking financial help.
All the responses will be anonymous and no personal information will be shared in the final report.
The recommendations of the document will be passed on to health and social care providers.
How can you get involved?
If you are an adult (aged 18+) affected by mental ill health and living in Norfolk or Waveney, you can fill in the survey online here
Or scan the QR code below which will link to the questions
If you are an adult (aged 16+) who cares for or supports an adult affected by mental ill health living in Norfolk or Waveney, you can fill in the survey online here
Or scan the QR code below which will link to the questions
If you would prefer to be part of the survey by phone, you can call Healthwatch Norfolk on 0808 168 9669 or email enquiries@healthwatchnorfolk.co.uk to arrange a time to be telephoned
The closing date for both surveys is 30th May 2022.
Why get involved?
Alex Stewart, chief executive of Healthwatch Norfolk, said: “This survey is part of a partnership between the NHS, councils, charities and community organisations to ensure the needs of adults affected by mental health conditions are met.
“Some changes have already been made to improve the support offered by mental health care services in the community so this project will help to assess that.
“It is also important that we gather feedback and experiences from those who are most affected. Patients, their families and advocates are those with the most relevant feedback and information which can be used to build and enhance future services.”