Mental Health Engagement Platform

It is estimated that 1 in 5 people in Northern Ireland have a mental health need. In June 2021, the Department of Health, published a Mental Health Strategy (2021-2031) to set the stategic direction for mental health services in Northern Ireland for the next decade. 

The Mental Health Strategy aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of the community. It is a response to the high prevalence of mental health problems in Northern Ireland, as well as the recognition of the impact of mental health on overall health and wellbeing. The strategy aims to improve access to services and support, promote mental health literacy, reduce stigma and discrimination, and increase investment in mental health services, and to achieve a more integrated, person-centred approach to mental health and wellbeing in Northern Ireland.

With this aim in mind the PCC led on developing structures to support and embed co-production within the mental health strategy delivery.

The PCC wish to ensure that the voice and lived experience of those who have been through the mental health system is both heard and actioned across all strategy and policy development. This resulted in the PCC establishing a Mental Health Engagement Platform for those with lived experience of mental health services.

PCC continue closely with the Head of the Regional Mental Health Service to provide insight and feedback on different aspects of the service. Additional, members of the Platform are actively involved in other committees and groups to ensure that the voice of lived experience is heard and considered in decision-making processes.