Card Before You Leave scheme hours reduced in north west
The Western Health and Social Care Trust cut weekend access to a mental health appointment service for young people in the north west starting in August.
Service operates only weekdays now
The Card Before You Leave scheme previously provided written appointments before patients left emergency departments. The trust stated that financial pressures forced the change to Monday through Friday operations only. Low-risk young people presenting out of hours are now assessed on the next working day instead of the next calendar day.
High risk cases remain unchanged
Arrangements for young people assessed as high risk have not changed according to the trust. These patients continue to receive appropriate assessment and support without interruption. The reduction applies specifically to those deemed low risk after out-of-hours presentation.
Local doctors express concern
Dr Joe McEvoy described the move as chipping away at an already threadbare service. He noted that families find it difficult to manage distressed young people without clear guidance. The trust said the decision remains under review while wider savings measures are implemented.
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