'Pioneering service' launched for deaf people

A MENTAL health service for deaf people in the Lothians, the first in Scotland, has been welcomed by ministers and charities.

It comes following feedback from the area's deaf community that there wasn't enough support away from the everyday practical problems they faced.

As a result, NHS Lothian has created the Deaf Community Mental Health Service, which was launched in the presence of public health minister Shona Robison and deaf charities.

Ms Robison said: "This innovative new service will offer support specifically for the deaf community, ensuring that those who also experience mental health problems receive high quality specialist help and support."

The service will offer one-to-one counselling as well as advice on a range of matters from relationships to careers.

NHS Lothian chairman Charles Winstanley called it a "pioneering service". He added: "It demonstrates our commitment to improving mental health services for everyone, and reducing social exclusion wherever possible."