Addiction unit backed

Addiction unit backed

9 October 2013

A LOCAL politician has called for a world renowned addiction unit based in Downpatrick to be recognised in a new consultation on the future of in-patient services for people suffering from alcohol and drug problems.

The Northern Ireland-wide consultation on the proposed reconfiguration of inpatient services for adults has been launched by the Health and Social Care Board.

Councillor Colin McGrath said the exercise must recognise the vital role of the Ward 15

addiction unit at the Down-

shire Hospital which has a world-wide reputation for excellence.

He said he is always wary about hearing “consultation on future service provision,” explaining he recognises it is as a code for a reduction in services.

Councillor McGrath said Ward 15 is renowned for the excellent service it provides, calling for the facility not only to be retained, but to be developed further with increased investment to make it even better.

“I hope the work of this excellent unit will be recognised and strengthened as a result of this consultation and that the service provided in Downpatrick will develop and flourish in the future,” he continued.

“I have written to the consultation team extolling the work of Ward 15 and my wish to see future service delivery on the site for some time to come. I would urge others in the area to do so as well.”

Councillor McGrath said the purpose of the new consultation is to consider how specialist in-patient beds, used for the treatment of those with alcohol and substance misuse, could be better organised to improve the services provided throughout Northern Ireland.

The Health and Social Care Board said it has reviewed specialist in-patient treatment provision within the health and care sector and that overall there are considerable differences between the services that can be accessed within the five health trust areas.

It says recognising this and acknowledging best practice guidelines, the Board is keen that a more consistent and improved service should be available for all residents in Northern Ireland.

Consultation on the reconfiguration of in-patient addiction services ends on January 10 next year.