Agenda item

Presentation by Associate Director of Partnerships and Strategy, Tees, Esk and Wear Valley NHS Foundation Trust

The Associate Director of Partnerships and Strategy, Tees, Esk and Wear Valley NHS Foundation Trust gave a presentation (previously circulated) updating Members on the work being undertaken to transform the mental health system.

Details were provided of the core aims and the vision of Community Transformation; an update on Darlington Connect which opened in March 2023; and reference was made to the expectations and impact of the model.

Members were advised of the plans for 2025 which included the commencement of peer support and autism support services in May 2025; and the key challenges of community transformation were outlined.

Members highlighted concerns regarding the visibility of Darlington Connect, despite its central location and it was suggested that Members provide further information regarding the service to residents via their newsletters.

Discussion ensued regarding the low percentage of patients requiring step up to secondary care services, the reduction in patients waiting for assessment, and staff turnover. Reference was made to the importance of offering support and techniques to enable people to manage their own mental health and Members noted that Daisy Chain would be offering this service via Darlington Connect for people aged 16 years and above, for those with and without a formal diagnosis.

RESOLVED – That the presentation be noted.