A panel of mental health experts, led by NSW Chief Psychiatrist Dr Murray Wright, will begin a series of community consultations and hospital visits next week as part of the state-wide review of seclusion, restraint and observation practices.
Minister for Mental Health Tanya Davies today announced dates for the 10 consultations, emphasising it is not too late for people to register their interest to attend.
“Feedback from patients, staff, carers and family members who have had contact with acute mental health services is vitally important for this review,” Mrs Davies said.
“If there are members of the community who cannot attend a consultation we encourage them to lodge a written submission.”
Mrs Davies said while rates of seclusion in NSW acute mental health units have dropped from 11.1 episodes of seclusion (per 1000 occupied bed days) in 2008/9 to 8.7 episodes in 2015/16, there is a lot more to be done.
“As a Government, we are committed to reducing the practice of seclusion and restraint, which is why we are undertaking this system-level review,” Mrs Davies said.
Dr Wright and the panel will also meet with frontline staff and conduct site visits at NSW health facilities across the state.
The review will examine legislation, policy, clinical governance and practice standards to ensure they are consistent with international best practice, national standards, and the expectations of patients and the community.
Written submissions can be lodged by mail or online until September 24, 2017. For further information please visit: NSW Health website or email mhseclusionreview@moh.health.nsw.gov.au.
*Dates and locations for community consultations are listed below.
Tuesday, 8th August 2017 - Orange
Thursday, 10th August 2017 - Wollongong
Monday, 14th August 2017 - Newcastle
Wednesday, 16th August 2017 - Sydney CBD
Wednesday, 23rd August 2017 - Mascot
Monday, 28th August 2017 - Western Sydney
Tuesday, 12th September 2017 - Lismore
Wednesday, 13th September 2017 - Coffs Harbour
Tuesday, 19th September 2017 - Wagga Wagga
Wednesday, 20th September 2017 - Queanbeyan