For decades, mental health systems across Europe have focused on leaving long-stay psychiatric institutions behind. However, deinstitutionalization only tells us what to avoid – it doesn’t provide a clear alternative, which can sometimes lead to adverse effects like homelessness or re-institutionalization.

So, what does truly good community-based mental health care look like?

To answer this critical question, René Keet and a diverse group of experts from 19 countries developed a comprehensive position paper on behalf of the EUCOMS Network. Titled “Recovery for all in the community” , this document provides a shared vision and a blueprint for a regional model of integrated care.

The paper outlines six fundamental principles for high-quality care, highlighting how to protect human rights, implement a public health focus, and elevate peer expertise in service design.

We invite you to read the full document to discover how we can bridge the gap between policy and practice, and build mental health services that truly support a person’s recovery journey.