In developing the model of care for the 24/7 Community Mental Health Centre, we have been guided by ten core principles. These were inspired by the knowledge, expertise and advice of our service users and carers, staff and partners about what’s most important to them:
1) Trusting relationships
Everyone feels safe and cared for by the people providing support. People are supported to have ongoing/longer term relationships with staff who work hard to get to know them, what matters to them and earn their trust.
2) Continuity of care
People are not passed from one team or service to another. The same people support you whether you are at home, in crisis or need to stay in a bed.
3) Neighbourhood-based
People can get the help and support they need close to where they live and in their own community
4) Open access
People can get help when they need it, where they need it, there is no criteria or referrals needed. It is easy to get a bed when you need it, and easy to leave when want to.
5) Close to primary care and system partners, collaborating with VCSE
There will be good links between your mental health care with your GP and other organisations or charities that provide support. They will work together.
6) Co-produced with community and people with lived experience
People and families who use the services will be part of designing them and delivering them.
7) Services actively promote belonging and citizenship for all
People who use services are seen as a whole person, just as important as anyone else in their community and are valued for who they are. Their human rights are upheld and protected, and they will be supported to do what matters to them.
8) Promoting freedom autonomy and choice
People are in control of their own care and make choices
9) Do no harm
The services provided are aware that many people will have experienced difficult things in their lives and will ensure they cause no further harm
10) All means all
These services are for everyone. Nobody is excluded. We will work hard to respect and respond to the reasonable adjustments people need
