This study explores talk about experiences of care continuity and recovery for people with serious mental health issues at the interface of primary and secondary mental healthcare in Wales. The approach adopted was qualitative, employing a methodology of thematic discourse analysis of talk generated by in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The study was conducted in two phases, the first round involving (n = 16) service users who had transited from secondary to primary care, and the second round involving (n = 16) workers and practitioners involved in supporting service users at the primary-secondary interface.The main findings were first that participants' expectations were misaligned with transforming service structures and interfaces. Second, participants constructed competing versions of recovery in their talk. Third, analysis of talk revealed experiences of care discontinuities in multiple areas, concentrated particularly at the primary level. On this basis, it is argued that a proliferation of competing recovery versions, and misaligned expectations of transforming But my most heartfelt debt of gratitude is directed towards those closest to me. My wife Zoe's support was crucial so very often, particularly with respect to the two children we have had whilst doing this PhD, Bridget and James, whose infantile support I would also like to acknowledge. From the start I think she has known the sacrifice she would need to make, and she has done so admirably. I would also like to thank God for restoring me to the point of this undertaking, sustaining me continually throughout the journey, and without whom I am nothing. Finally, my many thanks go to my Dad whose support is obvious and gratefully received, and of course my mother-in-law, Diana, who looked after both babies so many times in my stead, thereby allowing me to focus on my work!
Contents
ContentsChapter 1: Introduction