National survey highlights decline in people’s experiences of community mental health services
People’s experiences of the care they receive from community-based mental health services have continued to deteriorate, according to an annual survey from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
The survey published today (Thursday 22 November) highlights concerns around access to care, care planning and support for people with mental health conditions in relation to physical health needs, financial advice or benefits.
More than 12,700 people took part in this year’s survey which asked them about their experience of being cared for outside of hospital by community-based mental health services. These include specialist outpatient clinics as well as teams that visit people in their homes.
Although 71% of respondents felt they were ‘always’ treated with respect and dignity by NHS mental health services, less than a third (30%) rated their overall experience of community mental healthcare as nine out of 10 or above in this year’s survey – down from 34% in 2017.
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