AQW 480/16-21

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 02/06/2016
Answered On Date: 14/06/2016
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health what mental health services are available in the Southern Health and and Social Care Trust for people that have suicidal thoughts.

Answer:

People that have suicidal thoughts have access to the full range of mental health services provided across the Southern Trust area.

Services include:

Primary Mental Care Services – via referral from GP. Urgent referrals are seen within 10 working days.

Acute Mental Health Services - liaison services operate through the Emergency Department (ED) and Home Treatment/Crisis Response Services.

Support and Recovery Services – provided by Community Mental Health Teams.

All of the above services undertake a risk assessment related to a number of presenting factors, including suicidal thoughts. The outcome of the risk assessment informs decisions on the most appropriate intervention and support required for the individual and can include admission to an acute in-patient ward, Home Treatment or signposting to Community/Voluntary services and/or Primary Care.

In addition to statutory mental health services, support is available through programmes funded under Protect Life such as Lifeline 24/7 crisis response service, self harm intervention project, counselling, and bereavement support.