It is essential that assessments are regularly carried out by those in charge of an individual’s mental health care to determine whether it’s safe for them to be discharged and whether any further treatment is required.
A patient should be given at least 48 hours’ notice of the date of discharge from the hospital and care arrangements should be discussed with any family or carers who will be involved in their care.
On discharge patients should receive a written care plan based on a full assessment of their needs, taking account of all the services who will be providing support. It should include details of risks which may be faced and what should happen in a crisis situation, taking into consideration the need for support from an advocate or carers, who should be specifically identified. The care plan can include plans for help with accommodation, social care support and recreational activities.