§ Mr. Burstow:To ask the Secretary of State for Health what the Department's definition of an Early Intervention Service is, as envisaged in the priorities and planning framework 2003–06. [141752]
§ Ms Rosie Winterton:The definition of an early intervention service, as envisaged in the priorities and planning framework 2003–06 is as follows:
Early intervention in psychosis services provide quick diagnosis of the first onset of a psychotic disorder and appropriate treatment including intensive support in the early years.
The service is for:
- People aged between 14 and 35 with a first presentation of psychotic symptoms
- People aged 14 to 35 during the first three years of psychotic illness
An early intervention service should be able to:
- reduce the stigma associated with psychosis and improve professional and lay awareness of the symptoms of psychosis and the need for early assessment
- reduce the length of time young people remain undiagnosed and untreated
- develop meaningful engagement, provide evidence-based interventions and promote recovery during the early phase of illness.