How many people with mental health problems are assured the provision of practical support for advocacy services as recommended in the Acco…

Our National Health: A plan for action, a plan for change requires all NHS boards to work in partnership with local authorities to ensure that integrated independent advocacy services are available to those who need them. In addition, the Framework for Mental Health Services in Scotland encourages the provision of independent advocacy schemes and emphasises the importance of the engagement of advocacy organisations in the joint planning process. The Mental Health and Well Being Support includes this issue in its discussions with the care agencies and other parties including local advocacy, service user and carer representatives in each area. Where necessary recommendations for improvements are made in the outcome reports from the group.