‘Special measures’ announced to support mental health in Tayside

The Scottish Government has announced “special measures” to support NHS Tayside’s mental health services.

Specialists from a range of mental health specialities and backgrounds will provide peer support to the health board.

The support has been announced ahead of the publication of David Strang’s independent inquiry into mental health services at NHS Tayside this week.

It was launched after pressure from families who claimed their loved ones had killed themselves over issues at Dundee’s Carseview Centre.

The Scottish Government says it has already provided support to NHS Tayside since Mr Strang’s initial report was published in May 2019.

In the coming weeks, this will increase to address service provision, clinical practice, organisational development and community-led services. The Royal College of Psychiatry will also assess the quality of clinical services and areas of improvement identified in the report.

In addition, Healthcare Improvement Scotland will offer specific support in addressing the quality of adult community health services.

Scottish Government Mental Health Minister Clare Haughey said: “The people of Tayside must have access to high-quality, safe and effective services, and have trust and confidence in the services provided.

“The additional support being provided to NHS Tayside will help the health board to deliver significant improvements in mental health services.

“This will ensure that the right advice and support is in place so that people can access the services they need, when they need it.”