Chamber and committees

Health and social care in Scotland is being integrated to ensure people have access to the right care, at the right time, in the right place, and in particular that people are supported to stay in their own homes and communities for as long as possible.

Over the last two years, NHS Tayside has been reviewing its existing clinical models of care, including its mental health services. The priorities for this exercise have been patient safety and improving quality of care. It is important to recognise that, in relation to mental health, NHS Tayside’s review process is ongoing and that no decision has been made about the future shape of the service.

Since 1 April 2016, the lead role for the planning of mental health services has been devolved to the Tayside Integrated Joint Boards (IJBs), with the in-patient element being hosted in Tayside by Perth and Kinross IJB. Health and social care partnerships must make best use of their resources across health and social care, in communities and hospitals, to ensure people are supported to maximise their wellbeing with the highest standards of care. The Scottish Government is providing support to partnerships, health boards and local authorities as integration is implemented locally and new models of care are developed to better support vulnerable people.

The board is committed to working with the IJBs in taking forward the next steps in identifying a sustainable long-term model for mental health services across Tayside, with public engagement being a key aspect in finding the right solution.