An analysis of how agencies can support people with mental health problems to have an active life in the community, has been published by the Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health, writes Clare Jerrom.
Currently, the 1.5 per cent of the population with mental health problems are likely to be poor, unemployed, living in substandard housing and socially isolated by their experiences of discrimination.
The analysis, launched this week at the department of health and British Psychological Society conference on social inclusion, provides practical guidance.
It includes examples of how mental health services in partnership with other agencies such as housing, education, employment and the voluntary sector, can support people at home, in the workplace and in social settings.
Matt Muijen, chief executive of the Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health, said: "Treating mental health service users as citizens is important to their self esteem, dignity and potential for recovery. It is also fundamental to delivering the NHS Plan’s principles of access and equity."
"However, in the absence of practical definition and guidance, many services are struggling to tackle the social inclusion agenda. Working for Inclusion starts to fill this void," he added.
'Working for Inclusion' is available from 020 7827 8352
www.scmh.org.uk
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