462 COUNSELLING IN CARE HOMES

Abstract Introduction Although many people live well within care homes, it is estimated that 60% of those living in residential have poor mental health (Age Concern & Mental Health Foundation, 2006) and 40% suffer from depression (The Royal College General Practitioners, 2014). Antidepressant prescribing has been reported to be nearly four times greater homes than for older the community (Harris, Carey, Shah, Dewilde Cook, 2012). However, antidepressants found ineffective with dementia (Dudas, Malouf, McCleery Dening, 2018). With two-thirds home residents having some form dementia, there a need find alternative interventions. Talking therapies, such as counselling, may useful alternative. Method Adopting qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews focus groups counsellors (N = 12) who experience working this context managers 3) teams 6), study aimed explore feasibility implementing counselling setting. We explored views staff towards identify barriers service implementation, alongside delivered understand what delivery models are currently adopted. Data were analysed thematically. Results Findings fell under following key themes: The funding referral process home; skills competences required; training needs; adaptations practice; home. Conclusions It timely consider role psychological therapy supporting residents. There further research model homes.