Applying Change Theory to Enhance the Response to Socioeconomic Needs in Mental Health Care Services
By
Helen Baldwin
Anna Greenburgh
Anna Iskander-Reynolds
Dionne Laporte
Hannah Weir
Zara Asif
Mark Bertram
Achille Crawford
Gabrielle Duberry
Shoshana Lauter
Brynmor Lloyd-Evans
Cassandra Lovelock
Anikó Ajozi
Anna-Maria Amato
Pete Hardy
Simon M. Mckenzie
Guy Swindle
Claire Henderson
Jayati Das-Munshi
Craig Morgan
April 24, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Applying Change Theory to Enhance the Response to Socioeconomic Needs in Mental Health Care Services
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Severe Mental Illness (e.g., psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders, major depression) Key Mechanisms Social and economic inclusion interventions to improve mental health outcomes. Target Population Individuals with severe mental illness facing socioeconomic disadvantages. Care Setting Mental health services, particularly within the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust.
Key Highlights
Social and economic needs significantly impact mental health outcomes. Existing interventions like social prescribing may not adequately address all needs. High levels of economic hardship and unemployment among service users. Need for a person-centered approach to social and economic inclusion. Theory of Change methodology can guide the development of effective interventions. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Assess social and economic needs routinely in mental health evaluations. Management
Implement a range of interventions addressing social and economic domains. Monitoring & Follow-up
Evaluate the effectiveness of social and economic inclusion efforts. Risks
Neglecting socioeconomic factors may lead to poorer long-term mental health outcomes. Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals in contact with mental health services, particularly those with severe mental illness.
Focus on comprehensive support that includes social and economic factors.
Clinical Best Practices
Utilize participatory methods to co-develop interventions with stakeholders. Ensure equitable access to social and economic support services. Prioritize social and economic needs during mental health assessments. References
