Partnership between NHS 24, Police Scotland and Scottish Ambulance Service streamlining mental health support

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A partnership between NHS 24, Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) is streamlining how Lanarkshire patients receive mental health support.The Mental Health Pathway is a collaboration between the three services which ensures that people seeking urgent mental health support are directed to the most appropriate service for their needs.The NHS 24 Mental Health Hub is available 24/7 by calling 111 and selecting the Mental Health Option.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android The Mental Health Pathway ensures Lanarkshire patients contacting 999 with non-emergency mental health concerns are now routinely referred to the Mental Health Hub.Dr Ron Cook, NHS 24’s medical director, explained: "It is imperative that anyone in mental health crisis or distress can quickly and easily connect with professionals who are experts in that field."Within office hours, patients seeking help with their mental health should contact their own GP."However, during the out of hours period, such as evenings and weekends, it is common for patients to be unsure of where to access mental health support."Many will often reach out for help by dialling 999, which may not be the most appropriate care route for them.“The Mental Health Pathway was set up to streamline the process for anyone needing urgent assistance with