Service users and other stakeholders' evaluation of a liaison mental health service in an accident and emergency department and a general hospital setting

Liaison mental health care has been an emerging specialism of mental health nursing in the UK since the early 1990s. Studies have so far looked only briefly at service user evaluation. A qualitative study involving 47 interviews with service user and professional stakeholders was undertaken to determine what is important to stakeholders in a liaison mental healthcare service. The largest group of stakeholders interviewed were service users. Analysis of the data was undertaken using the service user interviews to guide the development of themes. The majority of the issues identified were raised by both service users and professionals. The three key themes were, the practicalities of the service including waiting time, the staffing profile and receiving the service, which included issues such as the opportunity to talk and outcomes. The findings provide new information regarding what service users and other stakeholders expect from a liaison mental health service and important areas to consider when offering a satisfactory service.