Young People with Mental Illness Released to Live in Caravans at Age 18
An investigation discovered that some teenagers were pretending to be recovered to avoid being transferred to an adult ward, while others were being placed in unsuitable settings.
According to the investigation by the Health Services Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB), mentally ill young individuals in hospitals face being moved to inappropriate environments like hostels and holiday camp caravans once they turn 18. Some even end up homeless.
Concerns were raised over the transition of young people from children to adult services when they reach adulthood, even though their care needs remain the same.
The report highlighted that the current system is causing distress for patients, families, and caregivers as they approach adulthood, facing uncertain transitions to new providers.
Several care providers noted that children’s and young people’s services are overstretched, prompting the need to transition patients to adult services at 18 to prevent bed blocking.
Experts cautioned that young patients are left with a “cliff edge of support” as they near adulthood, emphasizing the need for a more flexible and supportive approach.
Causing Anxiety
The present system is causing anxiety for patients, their families, and carers, especially those working towards recovery who are faced with an impending move to unfamiliar settings.
Some participants in the research admitted to concealing their illness to avoid being transferred to an adult ward, while mental health staff described discharging patients on their 18th birthday as “inappropriate.”
According to Sarah Hughes, chief executive of mental health charity Mind, the lack of seamless transitions between children and adult services puts vulnerable young individuals at risk.
She emphasized the need for comprehensive support for young people up to age 25, highlighting the importance of reforming the Mental Health Act to improve inpatient facilities.
Reform Mental Health Act
The Department of Health and Social Care expressed gratitude for the report, acknowledging the need to improve inpatient mental health services to ensure patient safety and quality care.
Plans are underway to reform the Mental Health Act, recruit more mental health workers, and transform care to provide more personalized and compassionate treatment for individuals with severe mental health conditions.
Overall, the report underscores the challenges faced by young individuals in mental health services and calls for a more supportive and integrated approach to ensure their well-being and safety.
