Inequities in Mental Health Care for Severe Mental Illness Across Rural UK Communities: A Scoping Review of Challenges and Enablers for Underserved Populations

Severe mental illness (SMI) and suicide are two significant and interconnected public health concerns. SMI describes complex mental health conditions which severely impact upon an individual’s ability to engage in functional and occupational activities. Across rural regions, numerous barriers exist which prevent access to mental health services and support. This protocol describes the process of undertaking a scoping review, which aims to explore where the gaps in knowledge are when it comes to suicide prevention and mental health support in SMI populations living in rural areas. Further consideration of underserved groups within rural communities will be given, to provide a holistic account of accessibility challenges.