FRIDAY, 8 SEPTEMBER, 2017

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: PHOTOS ATTACHED FROM EVENT IN MONTROSE

Feedback from Mental Health and Learning Disability consultation events

Three successful public events have been held in Angus this week as part of the Mental Health and Learning Disability consultation.

Events were held in Arbroath, Montrose and Kirriemuir with seven further events scheduled for venues in Perth & Kinross and Dundee over the next two weeks.

The Mental Health and Learning Disability Redesign Transformation Programme Team were available to chat informally with members of the public about the proposals to redesign services in Tayside, including those who use the services and their families and carers.

Written materials were also available for people to take away including the summary consultation document, frequently asked questions and questionnaire.

Over 60 members of the public attended the sessions at which 16 local care providers, advocacy services and other agencies which support users and carers were also able to showcase how they contribute to a growing and vibrant mental health and learning disability service across Angus.

Feedback from those who attended was very helpful with comments such as:

“Really good meeting and taking contacts from other services. As somebody that works for a service it is great to learn from others and build networks in the future.”

“We need to look at a more preventative approach. Using 3rd sector support to stop people moving into high tariff services. Spend to prevent.”

“A very good event lots of information. Lots of good stands. People willing to talk and share their knowledge. Well worth coming. Nice to be consulted with!”

“We are worried about the lack of services in NW pocket of Angus around Edzell village/Brechin. It can be difficult to get to Dundee for appointments and for visitors if someone is in hospital. Lack of public transport is a real problem.”

“Very good event. Carer support/enablement helpful plus Angus Voice, SAMH. Consultation stand also very good and person there very helpful explained clearly. Would have been good if more members of the public attended/aware of event.”

Bill Troup, Head of Angus Mental Health Services, said, “This review has allowed all partners to think differently and provides opportunities to consider how services can support people more widely, including improving the physical health and wellbeing of people with mental health problems.”

The consultation began on 3 July 2017 and will run for another three weeks until 4 October.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend the consultation events to find out more and share their views.

Monday 11 September, 2-6pm, Gannochy Suite, Dewars Centre, Glover Street, Perth

Tuesday 12 September, 11am-2.30pm, Strathearn Artspace, 6 Comrie Street, Crieff

Wednesday 13 September, 2-6pm, The Steeple, Nethergate, Dundee

Thursday 14 September, 2-5pm, Blairgowrie Town Hall, Brown Street, Blairgowrie

Monday 18 September, 11am-2pm, Pitlochry Town Hall, West Moulin Road, Pitlochry

Wednesday 20 September, 11am-2.30pm, Auchterarder Community Church, High Street, Auchterarder

Thursday 21 September, 11am-2.30pm, Loch Leven Community Campus, The Muirs, Kinross

Information about the proposed option and an online questionnaire are available on the consultation website www.taysidementalhealthredesign.scot.nhs.uk. People can also email mhldredesign.tayside@nhs.net, call Freephone 0800 7836 110 or write to Public Involvement, Tayside NHS Board, Freepost SCO 6181, Dundee, DD3 8ZR.

Contact:

Louise Wilson

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740718