The National Mental Health Experience Survey is the first national survey asking people about their recent experiences of inpatient mental health care in Ireland.

The survey aims to learn from people’s experiences of inpatient mental health care and services in order to improve the care provided in these settings.

The National Care Experience Programme (NCEP) is running the survey. The NCEP is implementing the survey on behalf of the Department of Health, the Mental Health Commission and the Health Service Executive.

What hospitals take part?

Thirty-five acute hospital or units to include public and private providers from across the six HSE health regions are participating in the National Mental Health Experience Survey. Click below to find out more.

View participating hospitals

What questions are asked?

The National Mental Health Experience Survey contains 66 questions that have been developed following a rigorous selection process. Click below to find out how the survey is developed and to view the questionnaire.

View questionnaire

Any questions about the National Mental Health Experience Survey?

Read our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) or contact the survey team here.

Support services

If you or someone you know needs any additional support or information about mental health and wellbeing please see here.
If you need urgent help, please find details here.

Timeline

Survey goes live in 2026

A few months after discharge from an inpatient mental health unit or hospital, eligible participants will receive an invitation by post to participate in the survey.

Laptop with imcoming emails

Survey closes

The survey closes in October 2026.

Online and paper survey

Results published

The results are then analysed and the reports are prepared for publication in April 2027.

Computer analyzing data

Quality Improvements

The responses from the survey will provide important information on the standard of services to help identify where improvements are necessary.

Leaflet with analyzed data
Arrow for dropdown menu

Survey goes live in 2026

A few months after discharge from an inpatient mental health unit or hospital, eligible participants will receive an invitation by post to participate in the survey.

Arrow for dropdown menu

Survey closes

The survey closes in October 2026.

Arrow for dropdown menu

Results published

The results are then analysed and the reports are prepared for publication in April 2027.

Arrow for dropdown menu

Quality Improvements

The responses from the survey will provide important information on the standard of services to help identify where improvements are necessary.

National Care Experience Programme
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