Relapse Prevention Group Programme for service users with an international statistical classification of diseases and related health problems (ICD10, chapter F20) diagnosis of schizophrenia in a community setting - a randomised controlled trial

INTERVENTION: Relapse prevention programme as opposed to treatment as usual CONDITION: Schizophrenia ; Mental and Behavioural Disorders ; Schizophrenia PRIMARY OUTCOME: 1. Increased self‐efficacy; 2. Greater knowledge in medication, support services and illnesses; 3. Improved quality of life; 4. Reduced severity of symptomatology SECONDARY OUTCOME: 1. Decrease in admission rates; 2. Decrease in length of stay following admission ; 3. Increase in the attendance rates of hospital appointments INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1. Newly diagnosed by a Community Psychiatric Nurse (CPN) 2. Age group 18‐45, men and women 3. Have a diagnosis of schizophrenia (ICD 10‐F20) 4. Sufficiently stable to take part in the programme 5. Assessment conducted by CPN 6. Living in the community 7. Be able to consent to participate 8. Be on a therapeutic dose of anti‐psychotic medication