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Abstract
Background: The current study was concerned with the issue of service user involvement in the planning and running of mental health services within the UK. Aims: In particular, this survey, was designed to gain a deeper understanding of Clinical Psychologists' awareness of and views about Service User Involvement in South Wales. Method: Quantitative and qualitative data were collected via a postal questionnaire. A list of potential participants working in adult mental health services was generated from the Directory of Clinical Psychologists, South, West & Mid Wales prepared by the South Wales training course. In addition questionnaires were sent to two Clinical Psychologists from outside the South and Mid Wales region who identified themselves, in published accounts, as either current or past users of mental health services (total number = 50). Results: Results, which were broadly consistent with a previous New Zealand study using an almost identical questionnaire, indicated that the majority of clinical psychologists who responded were supportive of service user involvement. Conclusion: However service user involvement was in varying stages of development in differing domains of involvement. Pertinent issues relating to facilitating the increased involvement of service users in mental health services are discussed. Declaration of Interests: None.