How the toolkit was developed
The Transformational Change Mental Health Unit supports NHS boards and Health and Social Care Partnerships to improve services and ensure timely, equitable access to mental health care.
Through the Mental Health Renewal programme, we have gathered guidance and examples to help teams working with complex mental health conditions. This work aligns with the Scottish Government’s Mental health and wellbeing strategy and the Core Mental Health Standards.
You can learn more about our programmes through our:
- Early Intervention in Psychosis End of Phase 1 Report (March 2021)
- Early Intervention in Psychosis End of Phase 2 Report (March 2023)
- Early Intervention in Psychosis End of Phase 3 Report (March 2025)
- Personality Disorder Improvement Programme webpage
- Personality Disorder Improvement Programme Launch Webinar (October 2024)
- Follow up webinar which outlines our work (May 2025)
We would like to thank the Personality Disorder Short Life Working Group, Early Intervention in Psychosis and Personality Disorder Improvement Programme pathfinder sites, the NHS boards and health and social care partnerships who have contributed their learning and experience to the toolkit.
Terminology used around personality disorder in the toolkit for change
There are a broad range of views across lived and living experience and professional groups about the term ‘personality disorder’. Similar to the Matrix (2025), use of this term in the toolkit has been a practical decision which reflects World Health Organisation terminology used in ICD-11.
However, it should not be taken to disregard any alternative viewpoints relating to the validity of the term or concept. We understand that language tends to evolve rapidly and reflect societal attitude changes towards mental health.