Multi-agency pilot intervention for high intensity service users of emergency public services: the Isle of Wight Integrated Recovery Programme

Abstract

1. Purpose
This paper describes the design, implementation and evaluation of a small UK case study of a mentoring style pilot intervention integrating a specially trained police officer alongside mental health professionals to support highly intensive service users of emergency services.

2. Design/methodology/approach
The development of the conceptual framework informing the mentoring intervention is described and its implementation evaluated using a range of qualitative and quantitative outcome measures.

3. Findings
The four high intensity service users involved in the pilot had internalised the need to participate in recommended recovery pathways. Mental health nurses reported improved compliance with treatment. Although the sample was small, the number of police mental health crisis detentions was reduced by 66% after one year and by 100% after 18 months. Usage of other emergency public services had also drastically reduced, or been eliminated altogether.

4. Research limitations/implications
Limited time and resources and the need for a solution that could be implemented as soon as possible meant a pragmatic design, implementation and evaluation.

5. Practical implications
The study indicated that a wider roll-out of the new multi-agency mentoring model would be beneficial.

6. Originality/value
This is the first intervention to integrate mental health a trained police officer directly into the care pathway of repeated users of emergency public services with complex mental health needs.

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