What We’ve Done

Mental disorder or mental illness is the psychological state occurring in an individual causing distress or impairing function, through emotional or behavioural problems that are not expected as part of social development or culture, (whether identified for treatment or not).

Service User Evaluation

We conducted an evaluation of local residential homes for people with mental health problems. Our report informed the revision of Kent County Council Social Services’ Tender document for prospective providers of such homes.

Rehabilitation Unit Focus Groups

We were commissioned by the local NHS to conduct focus-group style meetings for rehabilitation units’ residents. This enabled them to freely contribute to, and inform, the mental health services Redesign process.

Patients Council

An exemplary independent collective advocacy service: This Forum has provided Patients Council meetings on the wards at St Martin’s Hospital since 1999. The chance for patients to express ideas about improving hospital life for all patients.
At a monthly meeting, open to patients of all wards involved, the comments on topics raised at Ward meetings are discussed with patients and NHS Trust staff managers so resolutions can be found.

Drugs Education

We supported a Drugs Education Worker who (informed by personal experience) has visited secondary schools to give talks about the link between mental illness and drug use & abuse.