Guernsey’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy is tackling impressive progress as it moves forward in its implementation stage. The idea for the strategy came from our Economic Vision adopted in 2018. Jointly created with the States of Guernsey, Primary Care and the third sector, the plan seeks to improve mental health services by 2029. A recent status report shows that the initiative is 42% finished, with 78% of its actions started and 11% finished successfully.
The strategy is built upon four foundational pillars: collating bailiwick datasets, early intervention, service improvements, and responding to recommendations from external reviews. Each of these components has been extremely important in terms of driving the direction of mental health care on the island.
Pulling together these bailiwick datasets provides valuable context and insight into the mental health landscape in Guernsey. Through the use of this data-driven approach, they are better able to identify needs and areas for improvement. Early intervention involves reaching people as early as possible, at the first sign of trouble, and providing effective support to prevent more serious mental illnesses from occurring.
Service improvements all around are another major focus of the strategy, making sure mental health services are streamlined and deliver what people need. Furthermore, the strategy emphasizes the importance of addressing recommendations from external reviews, which contribute to refining and enhancing existing services.
He recognized and applauded the work of those developing and driving implementation of the strategy to its IDT.
“I am very pleased with the publication of the first full annual report on the Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, which highlights our progress made since its launch in September 2021.” – Mr. Leadbetter
As the strategy embarks on furthering its program of work, one of its key initiatives – the creation of a mental health and wellbeing services directory – is still in progress. This directory provides residents convenient, user-friendly access to community-based mental health resources. Second, it increases public buy-in by demonstrating the demand from people seeking assistance.
“I would like to thank all members of the technical team and supporting officers for their dedication and hard work in helping design and implement the strategy.” – Mr. Leadbetter
As the strategy continues its work, the development of a mental health and wellbeing services directory is also underway. This directory aims to provide residents with accessible information about available mental health resources, further enhancing support for individuals seeking help.
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