A CONSULTATION regarding mental health services across Cheshire is open until the end of this month.

The public have until Tuesday, May 29 to voice their opinions in the form of an online survey supplied by Cheshire CCGs.

No decision will be made until after the consultation findings have been fully considered. And any new service arrangements would be introduced gradually in 2019.

The consultation document relates to the proposed redesign of specialist mental health services for adults.

Dr Teresa Strefford, clinical director for commissioning, NHS South Cheshire CCG and NHS Vale Royal CCG, said: “Most people can be supported very effectively in the community with the right range of services.

“Ninety-five per cent of the 7,000 people we currently support with specialist mental health needs receive that care in the community and we want to improve it.

“The new model of care we are proposing would provide new services so that there is better access for people to help keep them well and active in the community.

“It would also provide much greater choice of services for those in, or at risk of, crisis, and support people with dementia and those who care for them to stay in their own surroundings.”