Service Description

The Mental Health Services Public Reference Group (PRG) is for service users and family carers. The group was established in 2009 following a major review of mental health services in Ayrshire and Arran, when a large number of service users and carers made a huge contribution to the review, resulting in many service improvements.

The PRG is not a recovery group or a therapy group. It focuses on giving service users and carers a voice to engage with the Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnerships to help develop and improve the mental health services provided.

The PRG has between 15 and 20 active members and meets approximately 10 times a year for regular dialogue and discussion with mental health service managers and clinicians. It is also a forum for members to raise issues that are important for them, and it acts as a peer support group, so that each individual benefits from the combined strength and support of the group.

An Update Newsletter entitled “Delivering Excellence in Mental Health” is published periodically and is distributed throughout NHS Ayrshire & Arran and to the wider Ayrshire community to let them know about the work of the PRG. It is also circulated to the three Ayrshire local authorities, Health and Social Care Partnerships, and Ayrshire community organisations interested in mental health.

Now that health and social care services have been brought together, the North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership (H&SCP) is the lead body for mental health throughout Ayrshire and Arran. However, the PRG has a pan-Ayrshire remit and gives a voice to people from all parts of Ayrshire and Arran. If you feel that you would like to take part in this, or if you know someone who would, please get in touch for a chat. We are a friendly bunch, and you will be made very welcome.

Costs

None

Duration

Ongoing Group

Resources and Amenities

Regular meetings – approximately ten per year held across Ayrshire. For details please contact Geoff Coleman.

Accessibility

All venues are wheelchair accessible

Areas Covered

Opening Times

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