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Mental health policy implementation guide: Adult acute inpatient care provision

Adult acute inpatient care already has a National Plan and NSF guidance; the guidance in this task force report augments these. It is based on feedback from users and carers, expert professional opinion and recognised good practice. Although there has been much improvement in acute inpatient services both staff and users have 'consistently demonstrated a high level of criticism and dissatisfaction with current provision'. The report addresses these concerns about the 'physical,psychological and therapeutic environment of care' and is intended to stimulate local action. To date, the emphasis has been on the development of alternatives to admission. With these now in place there is opportunity to reduce pressure on inpatient wards and improve the physical environment with the specific funding already available. Some 34 recommendations are made under ten headings. Appendices contain Further Reading lists and Membership of the Task group.