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Cathy happy in own home after years in psychiatric care
"I am happy with the staff that support me. I don’t talk about hospital anymore.”
Cathy is a 51-year-old woman who has suffered from severe and enduring mental health problems since her teenage years. Cathy has spent long periods of time in psychiatric care and, when not in hospital, has lived with her family who have supported her. Until her discharge in 2008, Cathy had not sustained her own tenancy within the community. Cathy has a daughter in her 20s whom she sees on a regular basis, and also has continued contact with her brother and sister. Cathy was referred to the service by Social Work Services.
THE ISSUES
Due to her mental health issues, Cathy could display very challenging behaviour, and initially required to be supported by two members of staff at all times. As a result of prolonged periods spent in hospital, Cathy was socially isolated and could become very agitated when out within the local community, feeling overwhelmed and threatened in crowded areas. Cathy also required support to revisit daily living skills and access opportunities within her local community.
SUPPORT PLAN
The following support plan was put in place for Cathy:
- A tenancy secured in a familiar area near her family to enable contact to be easily maintained
- Phased discharge from hospital
- A 24-hour support service
- An intervention and guardianship order was granted to social work to protect Cathy and act in her best interests. Extensive risk assessments were in place to ensure Cathy’s well-being and staff safety
- A core support team to ensure a consistent approach and allow Cathy to build relationships
- Clear guidelines for staff
- Identification of aspirations and work with Cathy to achieve these
PROGRESS MADE
Following discharge, Cathy successfully lived within her community for a period of one year before she required admission to hospital. Within this time, Cathy developed social networks, attended activities within her local community, and maintained regular contact with her family. Cathy’s service is monitored continuously by the multi-disciplinary team and every effort is made to support Cathy to remain in her tenancy when her mental health is causing her difficulty.
THE FUTURE
Cathy’s mental health continues to cause her difficulties, and it is probable that she will require further hospital admission. However, staff will continue to work with Cathy and others involved to ensure her service is enabling her to develop skills and to enjoy meaningful activity within her community, whilst maintaining her safety.
IN HER OWN WORDS
Cathy has agreed to this case study being shared and felt pleased that the success of her life in the community is being used as an example to others. Her own thoughts are noted below.
"I like my house. I like shopping, cooking, doing the garden, housework & ironing. My family are pleased that I am out of hospital. I go swimming and go to the pictures with staff. I see my daughter twice a week and also see my sister and niece a lot. I am happy with the staff that support me. I don’t talk about hospital anymore."
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