Government to appoint board of directors for mental health services

A board of directors for mental health services will be appointed by the government to give its advice for a holistic strategy for services in Malta and Gozo.

During the launch of the mental health first aid programme by Richmond Foundation, parliamentary secretary for health Chris Fearne said that the government would publish a legal notice through which the board would be set up.

“There is the need for a long-term plan complementing legislation on mental health,” he said.

Fearne spoke of improvements in the sector: patients admitted to Mount Carmel must be reviewed by a specialist within 24 hours while a new youth residence was recently opened.

Government partnership with NGOs, including Richmond Foundation, has resulted in the opening of a hostel in Qormi, welcoming 12 male patients who resided in Mount Carmel for years.

The programme launched by the Richmond Foundation will train workers and volunteers in mental health first aid.