10 June 2010

Pact West Coast has noticed increased use of our respite beds since the inpatient unit at the West Coast District Health Board (WCDHB) decreased its bed numbers.

Pact West Coast is contracted by the WCDHB to provide one crisis respite bed at the Palms and one planned respite bed at the Richmond Street Flats. West Coast regional manager Helen Porter says that since the inpatient unit (IPU) at the WCDHB has decreased its bed numbers to five beds, Pact has noticed an increase in the use of our two respite beds.

"We are seeing more people taking the opportunity to access the planned respite beds and some people are coming back at various intervals throughout the year."

Helen says DHB staff have noted that some people are not being admitted to IPU – instead, they are making use of the beds before they become so unwell that they have to be admitted.

"The beds provide a valuable service where people can remain in the community. That’s what it all about – community living."

For Pact’s crisis bed, staff get short notice if someone needs to access the bed. People can be brought in at any time day or night by the Psychiatric Emergency Team.

For planned respite, the bed is booked in advance by the community mental health case managers. This service gives people the opportunity to have some respite away from their own home - or they may want to have a holiday.