Moray SNP News

LOCHHEAD RAISES CONCERNS WITH NHS GRAMPIAN OVER MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN MORAY

Richard Lochhead MSP has written to NHS Grampian seeking clarity on current arrangements for mental health services in Moray. 

The MSP has been contacted by constituents who rely on services at Pluscarden Clinic, and who are concerned that regular appointments have yet to resume. Mr Lochhead has sought clarity on the support in place for mental health patients and has urged NHS Grampian to ensure good communication with those affected.

Commenting Richard Lochhead MSP said:

“Over the last few weeks I’ve been contacted by a number of constituents raising concerns about the level of support available to mental health patients in Moray at the moment.

“Many of them rely on services at Pluscarden Clinic, or support from their community mental health nurse, and have told me that there’s been a lack of communication from NHS Grampian in recent months in terms of how they can access support, and what level of support is available.

“One area that needs to be clarified is the timescales for resuming regular face to face appointments. I’ve asked NHS Grampian whether they’re able to provide timescales for that, and also if they could offer patients virtual appointments in the meantime.

“We know that the current restrictions are having an effect on people’s mental health and so it’s vital that people in Moray are able to access the support they need.

“In times of disruption, good communication is essential and patients need to know what help they can access and how to go about getting that help. The feedback I’m getting from constituents is that when it comes to local mental health services, communication with patients at the moment could be better, so I’ve urged NHS Grampian to look at this and to ensure that patients are receiving the necessary updates.”