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FCO and Mental Health Foundation team up to offer support to mental health patients on holiday (8 October 2015)

Date: 08/10/2015
Duncan Lewis, Legal News Solicitors, FCO and Mental Health Foundation team up to offer support to mental health patients on holiday

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is teaming up with the Mental Health Foundation to raise awareness of how British nationals with mental health needs can prepare for overseas travel – and how the FCO can help when travellers experience difficulties.

The announcement coincides with World Mental Health Day on Saturday, 10 October.

The FCO says that between 2009-2010 and 2014-2015, the number of British nationals with mental health needs requiring help from the FCO increased by 48% globally, making this an area of increasing focus.

Consular Social Work Advisor at the FCO, Georgina Hollingsworth, said:

“With one in four people in any given year expected to experience a mental health problem, it isn’t surprising that we have seen an increase in the number of people the Foreign Office is supporting overseas.

“We have been working hard to ensure our staff are better able to understand common mental health needs and recognise signs and symptoms – but we also want to ensure that travellers are aware of steps they can take themselves to help ensure trouble-free travel abroad.

“A trip overseas can be immensely enjoyable – but it can also be challenging.

“Simple steps such as adequately researching your destination can make all the difference – as well as understanding how the FCO can help if you do run into problems.

“So have a look at our advice, mind how you go and – most importantly – have a fantastic trip,” said Ms Hollingsworth.

The FCO is also advising travellers with mental health conditions to make sure that if they are travelling in the European Economic Area, they acquire a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) – as well as making sure that any prescribed medication is available and legal in holiday destinations.

The FCO says that mental health patients should make sure they know who to contact if their condition deteriorates on holiday, including knowing how to contact them in an emergency. It is also advisable to leave a copy of travel details and an itinerary with family or friends – and research a holiday destination and check FCO advice before booking to ensure that any issues are clear before arrival (eg any local problems such as political unrest or local outbreaks of illness).

CEO of the Mental Health Foundation, Jenny Edwards, said:

“Many people in the UK with mental health conditions manage them well day-to-day. However, there are a few extra things to consider when travelling abroad.

“Check your travel insurance covers pre-existing mental health conditions before travelling – and make sure that your medication is legal, available, and sufficient for your trip.

“Changes to your itinerary or a delayed flight could impact your mental health needs, so it is important to travel prepared – pack medication in your hand luggage and keep a record of your mental health contacts in the UK in case you need to reach them.

“Research your travel destination – and locate the local mental health services for that country. By following these simple steps, a relaxing trip can be easily enjoyed.”

More information and advice about foreign travel and mental health from the FCO are available at the FCO advice page – and a leaflet Mental Health: Travelling Abroad and a travel checklist are also available.

Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors
Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors can advise NHS patients on access to NHS mental health services and their rights under the Mental Health Act.
Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors are the largest provider of Legal Aid mental health services in the UK – and our specialist mental health solicitors and are available at short notice for appointments at hospitals and police stations nationwide.
In some cases, Duncan Lewis may also be able to advise the nearest relative or carer of a mental health patient.

For expert legal advice on mental health law, call the Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors Helpline on 0203 114 1124.

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