On April 20th 2009, the South East Coast, East of England, South Central and London regions launched a two-month consultation on how to improve services for people with severe personality disorder.

The consultation will focus on services across London, the East of England, South Central, and South East Coast regions which together cover a population of about 20 million. At present, two key London-based facilities (one temporarily closed) provide these specialised services for all four regions.

Mental health services are a high priority for local communities. The NHS aims to make services as accessible and high quality as possible and is asking for feedback about the best way to provide care for people with complex and severe personality disorder.

Stephanie Newman, Director of the South East Coast Specialised Commissioning Group and Chair of the Tier 4 Personality Disorder Consultation Advisory Group, said; “We are eager to hear people’s views about how care should be organised. We are not consulting about just one service or hospital – we want to know about the whole model of care to make sure we provide choice and support people with complex needs and their families, friends and carers.”

Between 20 April and 27 July 2009 members of the public, service users and staff can share their views online at www.westkentpct.nhs.uk, download information or sign up to attend an informal discussion. People can also request information by telephoning. 01732 375200 ext 5401.

Towards the end of the year, the NHS will decide about next steps, taking into account all the feedback from the consultation. The decisions will influence the services available for the next decade.
 
Notes to editors
The South East Coast Specialised Commissioning Group is managing the consultation on behalf of 62 PCTs.

Consultation information is available at www.westkentpct.nhs.uk.
Spokespeople are available to comment on clinical or strategic issues. For more information please contact Shola Oke, ph 01732 375200 ext 5401.or
email: shola.oke@wkpct.nhs.uk.