A Bridgend Council scrutiny committee will be updated on the shape of community-based mental health services today (pdf). It follows a reported increase in referrals. Loneliness and isolation during the pandemic are said to be amongst the driving factors behind the increase.
Community-based mental health services are delivered through a mix of Bridgend Council’s social services department, Cwm Taf Morgannwg health board and charities (including Bridgend-based Mental Health Matters).
The report says that:
- Referrals to the Social Care & Recovery Team (made up of social workers and support workers) almost doubled in 2021 compared to 2020, with most referrals coming from the police. The referrals range from anxiety issues, depression, suicidal thoughts and problems with housing.
- 39 people were detained under the Mental Health Act (aka. sectioned) in 2021, which was more than double the number in 2020. The people referred were also in older age groups (40-65-year-olds) rather than the more typical younger age groups.
- There was no change in referrals to Community Mental Health Teams, but there has been an increase in the number of younger people with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) being referred.
- Referrals to the Assisted Recovery/Care in the Community increased during the start of 2021 but gradually reduced to pre-pandemic levels. The reasons included “anxiety, depression and stress caused by bereavement, family issues, trauma or work-related difficulties.” In September 2021 there were 50 people receiving support from an occupational therapist, 82 people receiving short term support, and 15 people receiving employment support.
Grants of up to £5,000 were available to community charities/voluntary organisations during 2021. This money has been used for a range of services including youth counselling, bereavement counselling, well-being courses and outdoors rehabilitation programmes.
