The rates of psychiatric disorder in Derry were even higher than those reported by a similar survey in inner London. This almost certainly reflects the very high levels of social deprivation in the District. Needs for treatment were often unmet.

Resettlement of 15 long-stay psychiatric in-patients from a hospital rehabilitation unit to a new hostel was assessed by measuring symptoms, social behaviour and client satisfaction beforehand, then six and 12 weeks afterwards. Three residents experienced relapses with varying degrees of recovery. Overall, symptoms and social behaviour improved significantly. Change in satisfaction with the services offered proved difficult to measure accurately. A well resourced resettlement project can enhance long-stay patients' well-being.