The public are invited to share their experiences of mental health care at NSW Health facilities, as part of the review into seclusion, restraint and observation practices.

Minister for Mental Health Tanya Davies said the review, led by NSW Chief Psychiatrist Dr Murray Wright, is now open for written submissions, and soon community consultation would begin across Sydney and several regional locations.

“We want to hear about the personal experiences of current and former patients living with mental illness, from their families, their carers, mental health workers and other members of the community,” Mrs Davies said.

“I recognise people want to be heard and I cannot stress enough how vitally important their experiences are to this review.”

Community consultations will take place in Lismore, Coffs Harbour, Newcastle, Orange, Queanbeyan, Sydney, Wagga Wagga, Western Sydney and Wollongong.

Mrs Davies said the exact dates and venues for community consultations will be published on the NSW Health website soon.

“An independent expert panel, led by Dr Wright, will use all the information gathered to examine legislation, policy, clinical governance and practice standards, as well as make recommendations to support staff and implement change,” Mrs Davies said.

Written submissions can be made via post or email.

For more information, to lodge a submission or express interest in the community consultations visit Review of seclusion, restraint and observation of consumers with a mental illness in NSW Health facilities.

For concerns related to other aspects of the NSW mental health system, members of the public are invited to contribute to the Parliamentary Inquiry into the Management of Health Care Delivery in NSW via the Parliament of NSW website or contact pac@parliament.nsw.gov.au .​