This NICE guidance is the first of its kind to assess the evidence for improving service users' experience of health services. A number of recent government initiatives have highlighted the importance of taking service users' views and experiences of UK healthcare services into account, in order to improve the quality of their care - yet more remains to be done.

This is particularly the case for users of mental health services, many of whom have high levels of contact with services, can experience stigma and can be detained under the Mental Health Act. With almost a quarter of adults in England having a diagnosis of a mental health problem, improving their experience of care is of paramount importance.

This book examines the evidence for and gives recommendations on how to improve the quality of mental health services provided in seven main areas: access to community care; assessment (non-acute); community care; assessment and referral in crisis; hospital care; discharge and transfer of care; and detention under the Mental Health Act. It also makes recommendations across the whole of the care pathway, with a particular focus on improving the relationship between the mental health service user and healthcare professional.

The book details the methodology developed for this unique piece of guidance. An accompanying CD-ROM contains all the data used as evidence.

The guidance is intended for all mental health professionals working in secondary care, commissioners and service providers.