THE 12-week public consultation on proposals which could lead to the closure of two wards at the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton has been officially launched.
The Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby Clinical Commissioning Group is reviewing mental health services in the area and looking at three options.
Only one would see the retention of the two mental health wards at the Friarage. The other two would see inpatient care provided in Middlesbrough, Darlington or Bishop Auckland.
The Care Quality Commission has raised concerns about the wards at the Friarage, saying the dormitory-style mixed sex wards impact on patients’ privacy, dignity and safety.
CCG chief officer Janet Probert aid: “Over recent months we have engaged extensively with over 480 service users, carers, staff, partner organisations and the wider local community about how we can improve adult and older people’s mental health services."
For more visit hambletonrichmondshireandwhitbyccg.nhs.uk/transforming-mental-health-services
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