Shaping mental health reform together: the Commission’s call for collaborative push

Sandy Riddell, chair of the Mental Welfare Commission (the Commission), called for collaborative leadership, building trust, and co-creating a shared vision.

Speaking at the Commission’s external event, Sandy Riddell said:

“I believe in and support early intervention, empowering local communities, maximizing efficiency, and reducing duplication of work. I also believe in courageous collaborative partnership, influence, and leadership. There are many with expertise and knowledge in this room today, and we can leverage on this to progress and accelerate change.”

Also speaking at the event, Julie Paterson, chief executive of the Commission, reminded of the three-year consultation and evidence base underpinning the Scottish Mental Health Review. She acknowledged that new laws take time but said some of the recommendations don’t need to wait for a new law:

"There are steps that can be taken now. Let’s work together to deliver on the recommendations which gave us all hope for improved rights-based practice and best outcomes for those with mental health conditions, learning disability, dementia, and related conditions”.