Mr. Hugh Kane:

We are going to consider primary intervention, early intervention and positive mental health, which is about keeping people well. This is important. We will examine the integration of care and delivery systems between primary and secondary services. We have been asked to consider the development of e-mental health responses as well as workforce planning, forecasting and skill mix, including mechanisms to attract and retain staff. We will consider the emerging needs of vulnerable groups, people with comorbidities and specialist needs informed by the relevant clinical programmes. We will also examine the development of research, data and evaluation capability to ensure that the achievement of the best mental health outcomes can be demonstrated within the resources available. These are the terms of reference that have been drafted.

When we had our first meeting, the oversight group thought we needed to include the needs of vulnerable groups and we should also have an overall policy goal to reduce stigma and enhance resilience. These are being considered for inclusion in the terms of reference by the Minister.