The ‘Card Before you Leave’ scheme will mean that any patient being discharged from an in-patient, or an A&E setting, who requires ongoing attention from Mental Health teams, will now receive a card prior to discharge, giving details of contact numbers for support, and of how follow up care will progress.
Speaking at the launch at the Ulster Hospital, the Minister said: “This scheme is the latest in a range of measures to be introduced to try to reduce the devastating impact suicide and self-harm has on our population, our communities and families.
“I very much hope this simple but extremely important measure helps us achieve just that.
“When I was first approached with the proposals for this scheme, I was determined to see that it was implemented to ensure that anyone in distress does not feel isolated, alone, ignored or forgotten. This little card is very important for those for whom it has been designed – for some it could be a lifeline.
“By the end of this month, we will see a standard of care across Northern Ireland which will ensure that all patients at risk of self-harm, will receive details of follow-up arrangements for their ongoing care prior to their discharge from either an in-patient ward, or an A&E department.
The Minister concluded: “I would like to personally extend my thanks to PIPS/Greater Shankill Bereaved Families Rights Group for their hard work and dedication in helping to implement this important initiative. I would also like to thank staff throughout the HSC for their hard work in getting this new system in place.”
Notes to editors:
- This scheme was made operational in October 2009 but is now being formally launched to coincide with full implementation which is expected by the end of January.
- Any patient being discharged from an in-patient, or an A&E setting, who requires ongoing attention from Mental Health teams, will now receive a card prior to discharge, giving details of contact numbers for support, and of how follow up care will progress. For those being discharged from in-patients, this will include a follow-up appointment. Anyone being discharged from A&E will be contacted by their local Mental Health team within 24 hours to arrange an appointment.
- The Suicide Prevention Strategy was launched in October 2006. Since its introduction, the Minister has invested some £11.2million to support its implementation. Amongst other things, it has led to the introduction of Lifeline, the establishment of the pilot self harm registry, production of media guidelines, roll out of ASIST training, depression awareness training for GPs, public awareness campaigns, community support packages and the commissioning of research into suicide and self harm in Northern Ireland.
- Press enquiries to DHSSPS press office on 028 9052 0575. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
