Real Choice and Control: What does it mean?

This week, we need to talk about real choice and control, and the journey people embark on following a mental health inpatient stay. It should be a journey of discovery, introspection and resilience - but what does it mean to have real choice and control in this context?

We think it means:

• The freedom to do the things a person chooses to do.
• Finding purpose and meaning in every day life.
• Focusing on and appreciating family involvement.
• Nurturing the ability to make informed decisions.
• Benefiting from a supportive team that understands and respects individual needs.
• And so much more.

As care providers, how can we breathe life into these principles?

• By wholeheartedly embracing a tangible person-centred approach.
• By committing to continuous growth and improvement in our teams.
• By encouraging robust collaboration within a diverse, multidisciplinary team.
• By ensuring consistent, open and effective communication.
• Through demonstrating an unwavering readiness to go beyond the call of duty.

Commissioning teams play a crucial role in actualizing this vision. Some of the key impact moments could be:

• Trusting provider capabilities whilst acknowledging that transitions can sometimes be challenging.
• Being adaptable and flexible to meet ever-evolving needs.
• Setting clear expectations around regular reporting from providers.
• Recognizing that each transition is unique, and requires different approaches.
• Understanding that delayed discharge is NOT the only option, and complexity CAN be supported in the community.
• Actively seeking providers with proven track record in supporting people who have acquired complex reputations over time, and facilitating effective transitions from institutions.

Join us in this meaningful mission.

Let's discuss how Catalyst Care Group can deliver personalized, complex care at home, focusing on empowering individuals and restoring their choice and control.

We would love to hear your best practices and experiences that have worked well for you.