Council to renew mental health services agreement
Poster information
Posted on: Wednesday 07 April 2021
The Cabinet of Bridgend County Borough Council has approved the renewal of an agreement with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board to provide mental health services.
A report presented to Cabinet at its meeting on Tuesday 6 April said the service, which is called Assisting Recovery in the Community (ARC), provides integrated daytime health and social care services for people with more complex mental health needs.
It offers responsive and accessible person-centred support, promoting the recovery of a person from an episode of mental ill health. This includes preventative services, signposting to advice and guidance, short-term support, occupational therapy, activity planning, employment support and advice, and social support.
People can access the advice and guidance service without the need for referral and it acts as a point of contact for community organisations and agencies requiring information in support of individuals. This includes local third sector organisations, employers and colleges.
The service supports all mental health services in Bridgend County Borough, providing opportunities for individuals to improve their mental health and well-being, enhance their lifestyles and to maximise function and independence through existing community resources.
During the pandemic, the service has continued to receive referrals and while face-to-face contact has been unable to take place, support has been offered via email and telephone call.
An agreement was in place with Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board to provide support before being transferred over to Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board following the health board boundary change in April 2019.
The revised agreement has been reviewed to take into account the progress of the service and reflect the current situation including budget and staffing details.
As previously agreed by Cabinet, the council will take the lead responsibility for the delivery of the service.
Cabinet approved entering into the revised agreement, which will run until 31 March 2025.
For more information about ARC, visit the council’s website. If you are in need of mental health support, telephone guidance and email advice is available between 9am and 4.30pm from Monday to Friday. Email ARCInformationandAdvice@bridgend.gov.uk or call 01656 763176.