AbstractsMedical & Health Science

This study has its origins in a question posed by a patient diagnosed with a psychotic illness, as to why her husband could not administer depot injection. Following local and national discussion the study aims were; - to explore the elements of risk management involved in enabling carers (supportive persons) to give depot injections - to develop a training package that may be useful for others to use should such a request be made - to establish whether enabling supportive persons to give depot injections would have an effect on the relationship between the user (recipient of the medication) and the supportive person (giver of medication) - to ascertain the views, concerns and attitudes of medical staff (prescribers) and mental health nurses (administrators of depot injections) about enabling carers/relatives (supportive persons) to give depot intramuscular injection medication. An action research study informed by empowerment theoretical perspectives and influenced by recovery philosophies was used to explore the issues about ‘supportive person’ depot administration. Methods used to collect data included case studies, interviews, observation, reflection and three validated evaluation tools. Data were analysed through thematic analysis, and alongside establishing data, relating to the study aims, additional themes i.e. stigma, disclosure, concealment and trust evolved from the data. The study has relevance for clinical practice, policy and service provision. Current government policies promote choice and collaborative working and health and social care staff are encouraged to be responsive to the views of mental health service users and carers in relation to their experiences and expectations of care. Mental health services are being asked to deliver and translate these policies into practice alongside expectations of gainful employment for service users.