Providing advice and support for financial and social welfare-related challenges adapted to the needs of people experiencing mental ill health: a qualitative evaluation of the Money and Mental Health (MAMH) service in Kent, England.

BACKGROUND: Financial difficulties and mental ill health are closely associated. Evidence on specialist financial and welfare-related advice and support services for people engaging with mental health services in the UK is limited. This study reports findings from the qualitative component of a mixed-methods evaluation of the Money and Mental Health (MAMH) service. AIMS: To examine how the MAMH service supports referred clients, and the factors that influence its impact. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews with fourteen MAMH clients and two focus groups with nine MAMH caseworkers thematically analysed. RESULTS: Engagement with the service was associated with reported improvements in client mental health, including suicide prevention, and reduced psychological distress and anxiety particularly when these were linked to financial matters. Central to its impact was the service's delivery model of intensive, relational casework which included a single dedicated caseworker; flexible, "wraparound" practical advice and support; an open-ended timeframe of support; supporting client engagement and action-taking; and attunement to clients' emotional needs. CONCLUSIONS: The MAMH service provided effective support to people using mental health services by addressing social determinants of mental health. The service's delivery model offers one blueprint for adapting advice and support services so that they effectively complement mental health services.