Since the NHS was founded on 5 July 1948 there have been huge changes in the way we think about mental health and learning disability – and in how we support people. Take a look at some of the key milestones and developments over the last 70 years and how they have affected what we do in Devon.
It is estimated that around 1.5 million people in the UK have a learning disability, and around 350,000 people have a severe learning disability. Around one in four of us is likely to have a mental health problem at some point in our life. Awareness and understanding have greatly improved, but the challenge to eradicate stigma and put mental health on an equal footing with physical health continues.
Building work begins on the Wonford House site in Exeter for a new Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and a new Mother and Baby Unit (MBU), both scheduled to open in 2019.
Young members of the Royal Family launch the Heads Together campaign to encourage discussion about mental health.
The North Devon Self Harm and Suicide Prevention group was set up. In 2017 this became the Devon and Torbay Suicide Prevention Alliance (DTSPA). Listen to Marie, a Peer Support Worker, talk about issues surrounding mental health and suicide.
Samaritans launch their free-to-call helpline for those struggling with their mental wellbeing and suicidal thoughts.
Building the Right Support paper is published - a national plan to develop community services and close inpatient facilities for people with a learning disability.
The NHS Five Year Forward View is published. It pointed out that one in four of us will experience mental health problems, and mental illness is the single largest cause of disability.
The £27m Dewnans Centre opens, as one of the most modern medium secure facilities in the country.