Better mental health services

North Staffs Users Group (NSUG) is the independent charity that works towards improving mental health services in North Staffordshire. NSUG does this by speaking with anyone who has experience of mental ill health, and finding out what they think of the treatment they have received.

By finding out what people think of – and want from – mental health care, the NSUG can help to ensure that the views of people who have had mental health difficulties are considered when future services are being planned. Alternatively, if someone has a specific problem with the treatment they are receiving, they can ask NSUG to help them to resolve it.

As Emma Ford, the Group's Stoke Outreach Worker, says, "We want to hear what people think about anyone who offers mental health services. This could be GPs, Social Workers, Resource Centers, Community Nurses, Harplands Hospital, or even Voluntary Groups. We want to hear the things that people think are good as well as not so good. Also, if someone has refused services or treatment, or has decided not to attend appointments, we'd like to know what put them off. If anyone has any views whatsoever about mental health services in this area we want to hear them!"

So, if you've got anything that you want to tell NSUG about, Emma will be in the Waiting Area of the Greenfield Centre, Tunstall, 11.30-12noon on the first Monday of each month; at Christchurch Social Services Drop-in, High Street, Tunstall, 11-12noon on the last Wednesday of each month; and at the American Clubhouse, Waterloo Road, Cobridge, 11-12noon on the last Thursday of each month. Alternatively you can contact the Emma by telephone on 01782 683043, or email emma@nsug.co.uk