THREAD: The #HighIntensityNetwork model

There's been growing debate about use in a number of places across England of 'High Intensity Networks'/‘Serenity Integrated Monitoring’ with people who have complex mental health needs & required frequent support from emergency services.

Many people in this situation have been let down by a number of different services, including #MentalHealth services, and they deserve effective and compassionate support.

Concerns have been raised about whether the HIN/SIM approach is safe, effective or appropriate. These concerns need to be taken seriously. Any new approach or intervention to support people’s mental health needs to be tested robustly and independently, before it is spread widely.

It needs to be evaluated for its safety, effectiveness and acceptability, with evidence drawn from personal experience. This is especially the case for any approach involving elements of coercion, which can have lasting negative effects.

We are also deeply concerned about the way such approaches could further heighten the stigma around people with complex needs, or re-traumatise them, instead of giving people the compassionate support they need and deserve.

It is vital that limited funding for mental health support is spent wisely. Policy must follow robust evidence, and decisions about resource allocation need to be open & challengeable. We would like to see that evidence presented publicly & compared with alternative approaches.

We're grateful to numerous service users who've been highlighting their concerns around this for some time. Any mental health support must be compassionate, not coercive, trauma-informed and evidence-based. We will continue to champion those values across our work