‘Productive’ engagement around mental health service provision in Causeway area
Senior staff from the Northern Trust’s mental health service enjoyed a productive meeting with representatives of SOS Causeway recently.
The group received an update from the Trust on the wide range of mental health services provided across the Causeway Coast and Glens area.
The Trust also shared the good news that it has secured permanent funding to enhance its mental health liaison service at Causeway Hospital’s Emergency Department and hospital wards, with the service now operating 24/7.
The liaison service works in partnership with other teams to provide specialist mental health assessment and support to individuals attending the Emergency Department, resulting in more timely assessment and referral pathways for ongoing treatment and care.
Dr Petra Corr, Director of Mental Health and Learning Disability with the Trust, said: “We very much welcome this engagement with SOS Causeway as it provided an opportunity to update on the latest good news about us being able to establish a 24/7 Mental Health Liaison Service at Causeway Hospital.
“This is a really welcome development and will ensure there is now early specialist intervention available round the clock. Not only is this positive for our service users, it is also hugely beneficial for colleagues as it provides them with another layer of support, especially during very busy periods, and helps to divert people to the most suitable care pathways in a timely way.”
Dr Corr said SOS Causeway members were also interested to hear more about community mental health services, including the Trust’s partnership working with GPs and other colleagues in primary care primary care via enhanced multi-disciplinary teams.
Dr Corr added: “We know that our demographic is changing; we have an increasing older population and that brings with it challenges in terms of increased incidences of mental health issues including dementia. As part of our Vision for Causeway Hospital, we want to ensure that the services we provide are responding to those changes, and reflect the needs of the local population.”
Gemma Brolly, from the SOS Causeway Hospital Campaign Group, said: “We will always advocate for clear, concise information on critical issues such as the plans to move forward with inpatient beds being provided at Birch Hill, a new build centre for mental health on the Antrim Area Hospital site.
“We were encouraged to hear that 24/7 specialist mental health care, including the liaison and home treatment services, will continue to operate from Causeway.
“Strengthening dialogue between all stakeholders will help ensure a collaborative approach that places the needs of our community at the forefront.
“All present agreed that clearer, timely communication and the creation of a community consultative body—bringing together experienced representatives, service users and professionals—are essential. By working together and pressing for the investment our community deserves, we can secure the best possible mental health care for the Causeway area.”
6th November 2025
