Mental Health in Scotland: Closing the Gaps - Making a Difference: Commitment 13

Covering Letter

Healthcare Policy and Strategy Directorate
Alex McMahon, Head of Mental Health Delivery and Services Unit/Mental Health and Learning Disability Nursing Advisor
T: 0131-244 2816
F: 0131-244 2970
E: alex.mcmahon@scotland.gsi.gov.uk

10 December 2007

Dear Colleague

CARE AND SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE WITH CO-OCCURRING SUBSTANCE MISUSE AND MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS

The 2006 Advisory Group established to review and update available guidance on care and support for people with co-occurring substance misuse and mental health problems has now produced their outcome report (and recommendations) which is attached. In particular I would like to thank Dr Peter Rice for chairing the group and for working so closely with us to produce this publication.

There are 6 practical recommendations which focus on deliverables for change and improvement in the prevention, care and recovery services for this care group, their carers and their families. We will ensure that these are picked up and monitored through the Implementation Review work plan.

The overall report builds on the principles and recommendations of the previously published Mind the Gaps and A Fuller Life reports and is designed to move this joint agenda forward and support joined-up local delivery to improve the awareness, support and service provision for people who have both mental health and substance misuse problems.

I would be grateful if you could copy this letter and report to all with an interest particularly those who are currently or will be delivering the changes recommended and set out. Finally I look forward to working with you in the coming months on progress with implementation which fits of course with the published objectives for mental health in Scotland.

An electronic copy is available on: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications.

Yours sincerely

ALEX McMAHON