An independent report detailing the results of the recent Mental Health Acute Care Pathway public consultation has been published.

The 130 page-report written by Bournemouth University Market Research Group gives detailed information on the feedback received on a range of options to improve services in Dorset.

These include

• Changes to inpatient beds including an additional 16 beds to meet demand
• Enhanced support via Connection a 24/7 crisis line
• Creation of retreats where people can go to get the right treatment and support when needed
• Introduction of Community Front Rooms to improve access to services
• Recovery beds being made available across the county

In total there were 1,156 responses to the Mental Health Acute Care Pathway Review Consultation Questionnaire.

623 were postal responses and 533 responses were via the online survey. There were 43 easy read surveys returned, and 9 organisations provided formal responses.

The consultation ran from 1 February to the end March 2017. The responses will be carefully considered by the Governing Body of NHS Dorset CCG prior to any decisions being made.

It is expected this will happen on 20 September 2017.

A summary report of the responses to the consultation was shared in June 2017.