13 May 2021
An initiative which will help Islanders with their mental health has been set up as part of the Mental Health Improvement Plan.
Crisis Care and Community Triage were identified as a priority as part of the 2020 Government Plan and aims to establish a robust response to people struggling with their mental health by:
- Improving the service experience and outcomes
- Avoiding unnecessary Mental Health Law detentions
- Reduce repeat attendances to A&E
- Improve collaboration between emergency services
The initiatives are led by nurses, social workers, support workers, and psychiatrists delivering the right care and support at the right time to Islanders.
The Community Triage Team works with the States of Jersey Police and the emergency services attending calls where the mental health of individuals is a concern.
Lead Nurse for Mental Health, Clare Ryder, said: "Mental health conditions still carry an unwanted stigma and as this Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportunity to remind Islanders that we have safe and effective services in the Island and that it is okay to not be okay and ask for help."
"Staff are working extremely hard to reduce the time those with mental health concerns spend with police officers and the home treatment gives people the option to receive care at home rather than the hospital."
Assistant Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Trevor Pointon, said: "It is vital to provide support for Islanders suffering from mental health conditions throughout our emergency response. We know that some calls will have a mental health aspect to them and these initiatives allow us to give more support."
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