Newcastle upon Tyne review

Where patients are presenting with mental health concerns and management of this is based on reports that they are receiving support from other sources, GPs should be encouraged, where possible, to verify this.

All GP Practice staff should be encouraged to attend Domestic Violence training to raise their awareness of this issue, have regard to the impact of domestic violence upon the wider family unit and to recognize the interface between safeguarding and domestic abuse. The training is available from Newcastle City Council and/or the Safeguarding Teams from NGCCG. An annual audit of training undertaken will be done by the Safeguarding Adults Lead NGCCG. Responsible – GP Lead for Safeguarding Adults NGCCG.

NGCCG should continue to support GP Practices across the City to promote the needs of carers within Primary Health Care Teams. Responsible – Medical Director for NGCCG in partnership with the Clinical Strategic Director, Newcastle Unit of Delivery.

This review highlights that GP’s and Clinical Staff in primary care need to explore the wider implications, and potential risks, of an individual’s presentation and behaviours. The ‘Think Family’ agenda includes children and others with vulnerabilities; this issue will be emphasised in training. Responsible – GP Lead for Safeguarding Adults NGCCG, Adult Safeguarding Leads in GP Practices and the Safeguarding Adults Team, NGCCG.

All GPs should be aware of the correlation between poor mental health substance misuse and domestic abuse to ensure exploration of all issues and appropriate actions can be made to ensure the safety and welfare of all.

All GP Practices should routinely enquire and document next of kin / partner / children details at the point of registration and updated as required, to ensure the appropriate support and interventions can be offered.

Ensure a clear record of all changes to care packages is entered on Carefirst by Social Work staff.