ÃÛÌÒAPP

Today (6 February) is ‘Time to Talk Day’ and ÃÛÌÒAPP Hospitals are officially launching their 5-year mental health strategy – Mental Health Matters.

Nearly half (47%) of all people discharged from wards and departments at ÃÛÌÒAPP Hospitals have both a mental and physical health condition. This strategy provides a clear framework for the Trust to deliver care for patients, carers and staff with mental health needs.

The plan is a reflection of the increasing priority for society and healthcare providers to make sure we provide a service that considers the mental and physical health needs of patients, carers and staff.

Rachael Gregory, associate director of nursing (mental health) said: “ÃÛÌÒAPP Hospitals has long recognised the importance of mental wellbeing for patients, carers and staff. We know that mental health and psychological wellbeing is a core component of overall health, and we are committed to providing fully holistic services.

“This strategy will guide how we can meet the needs of our patients, carers and staff to ensure people’s mental health needs are met whether they are visiting or work for ÃÛÌÒAPP Hospitals.”

The Trust’s new mental health strategy is the result of 18 months of collaborative work from a steering group made up of contributors from a range of backgrounds and experiences. This included staff and an expert reference group of patients and carers with lived experience.

Aimee Wilson, a mental health blogger who is part of the group added: “When my mental health was at its most poorly, ÃÛÌÒAPP Hospitals staff literally saved my life, and in doing so they contributed to me having the opportunity to recover from my mental illness. My recovery has led to so many amazing opportunities and achievements, and I will feel forever grateful to the Trust. Having this valuable experience with their services and staff, meant that I jumped at the opportunity to be on the expert reference group for the creation of this strategy.

“The Trust have kept service users and patients at the heart of this strategy. It is the ultimate illustration of the organisation being incredibly compassionate, kind, and empathetic. I feel that these qualities plus the Trust’s dedication to always do better, shines through the Mental Health Strategy and will help staff to improve the care and support they provide patients with a mental illness.”