'A Vision for Change' has guided national mental health policy for the past 10 years and its term came to an end in 2016. The Department of Health, following a recent request for tender, awarded a contract for an expert evidence review and analysis of national and international best practice in the development and delivery of mental health services. The review aims to identify sites of best practice, outlining how these models can apply to the Irish context. The review will also assess the current delivery of Mental Health Services in Ireland having regard to the international evidence and the implementation of 'A Vision for Change',and will have regard to both human rights and Health and Well-being objectives. It is expected that this review will be completed by end-February 2017.
This evidence review will inform the parameters of a review of 'A Vision for Change'. Consideration is also being given to establishing the appropriate oversight structure for the policy review process.