​A panel of mental health experts, led by NSW Chief Psychiatrist Dr Murray Wright, is seeking feedback from community members across Sydney and Western Sydney who have had contact with acute mental health services in NSW hospitals.

Dr Wright said the consultation is part of a state-wide review of seclusion, restraint and observation practices at mental health units, ordered by the NSW Government.

“Residents of Sydney who want to have their say on this important topic will have a chance to share their views and experiences directly to the expert panel who are examining the practice of seclusion,” Dr Wright said.

Three consultations will be held over the next two weeks in the CBD, Mascot and Rooty Hill. They follow four sessions already conducted across the state, and are the next three of 10 planned. They will be held at:

• CBD: Wednesday, August 16, at the Mercure Hotel, Sydney from 5 – 7pm.
• Southern Sydney: Wednesday, August 23, at the Stamford Plaza, Sydney Airport from 5 – 7 pm.
• Western Sydney: Monday, August 28, at the Rooty Hill Novotel from 5 – 7pm.

“When Mental Health Minister Tanya Davies established the review to reduce the practice of seclusion and restraint in mental health services across NSW, she made it clear community consultation would play a key role,” Dr Wright said.

The review will examine multiple aspects of seclusion, restraint and observation practices including; legislation, policy, clinical governance and practice standards within mental health facilities.

The findings and recommendations from the independent review will be presented to the NSW Government later this year.

The review team will also conduct site visits at NSW Health facilities across the state and meet with frontline staff to ensure their voices and experience are heard.

If you cannot attend the consultation, written submissions can be lodged by mail or online until September 24, 2017.

For further information or to register please visit NSW Health or email MHSeclusionReview@moh.health.nsw.gov.au