A new scheme is being piloted in a handful of venues in Cornwall, which will offer people the opportunity to talk in confidence about the services they receive in relation to their mental health. Run by Cornwall Rural Community Council's Mental Health Project, the Community Independent Visiting Scheme is taking place initially in three Community Mental Health Team (CMHT) bases.

The scheme aims to gather feedback from people on how services could be improved. Community Independent Visitors will then liaise with mental health service providers to discuss this feedback to try to bring about positive changes. The Community Independent Visiting Scheme also offers people information on where to get further help and can signpost them to relevant people or organisations.

Although the scheme is being piloted in some CMHTs, the Cornwall Mental Health Project intends that the scheme will then expand to include GP surgeries, community groups and day centres throughout Cornwall.

Jenny Pheby, Cornwall Mental Health Project's Manager says, "As we are independent, we are in the best place to hear what people have to say about the services they receive. We work in partnership with Health to make services fit for the future. Service user involvement is now a big part of the Health agenda and we are delighted to be able to run this scheme with the support of Cornwall Partnership Trust and the Primary Care Trust."

The Community Independent Visiting Scheme is staffed mainly by volunteers who have either had mental health issues themselves or have been carers, so volunteers will often have a real understanding of what people have experienced. says Jenny, "whether you've seen your GP about milder problems, like depression or anxiety, or have been referred to specialist mental health services for extra help, we'd love to hear from you. All comments will be listened to in confidence."

The scheme currently operates at the following venues:

• Penzance – Bolitho House, Laregan Hill – alternate Tuesday afternoons from 1.30 – 4.30 p.m.
• Redruth – Trengweath, Penryn Street – alternate Thursday afternoons from 1.30 – 4.30 p.m.
• St Austell – Alexandra House, Alexandra Road – alternate Thursday mornings from 10.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.

However, if you are not able to get to one of these venues, please call either of the numbers below.

For more information on this scheme, or if you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact: Nicki on 01872 243542 (Carrick, Kerrier & Penwith) or Lesley on 01872 243557 (Restormel, North Cornwall or Caradon).