The members newspaper Delivering Quality Care,

Closer to Home SEPT Welcomes Community Health Services from Bedfordshire, South East Essex and West Essex In August and September SEPT’s Community Health safety at the centre of Neuro-rehabilitation, 2011 SEPT welcomed the Services are a growing all that we do and we Acquired Brain Injury, staff and services from part of the NHS. They are are proud to provide 0-19 Teams, Health South East Essex, West focused on achieving real healthcare for a population Visitors; Children’s Services Essex and Bedfordshire and sustained change to of approximately 1.8 and Child Protection, Community Health the way that services are million people in Essex and Community Hospitals – Services. This now means designed, delivered and Bedfordshire. inpatient beds / outpatient that we are providing improved - working across clinics

mental health, learning the whole health and social Altogether approximately Rapid Accesss Clinics disability and community care economy. 3000 staff (70% clinical Urgent Care health services across services) have transferred Sexual Health the counties of Essex Pivotal to the success of to SEPT, based at clinics, Community Dentistry and Bedfordshire. The this national initiative will health centres and combination of these be the transformation of community hospitals. Prison Healthcare services brings us closer to our Community Health Services are also provided Stop Smoking Service the integration model that Services in Bedfordshire in other settings such Healthy Living and other is our vision – providing and West and South East as schools and people’s health improvement From seamless and effective Essex to provide a ‘joined homes. initiatives South Essex Partnership University physical and mental health up’ approach to care for Specialist Nursing – ‘ Services include: NHS Foundation Trust services – in hospital, in the local people - from home Parkinson’s Disease, Wound Intermediate Care, District community and in your to hospital care and back Care, Macmillan Nursing home. This has increased again. We are already Nursing, School Nursing, Email: [email protected] our staff to over 6,000 and talking with GPs and Wheelchair Service, Our commitment is to Facebook: facebook.com/SEPTNHS our budget to £300 million. developing joint working Podiatry, Continence, deliver excellence in Twitter: @SEPTNHS Our services are available between health and social Occupational Therapy, everything that we do and from over 200 locations care partners to achieve Speech and Language to ensure that first class Issue 1 – bringing care closer to care without boundaries. Therapy, Physiotherapy, patient care and quality lies home. SEPT puts patients and Nutrition, Dietetics and at the heart of this. Winter 2012 Diabetes Care, Endoscopy,

Election Results

Congratulations to all the newly elected Governors – see the full list of successful candidates on Page 3 Saffron Walden Mental Health Day Community Hospital Celebrations Opens its Doors Monday 10 October 2011 was World Mental Health Day An open day on 15 October and SEPT alongside local mental health organisations welcomed visitors to Saffron Walden MIND and RETHINK once again participated in the latest Community Hospital. Turn to Page 5 Time to Change public event to challenge mental health for all the details. stigma. ‘ Continued on Page 9 - 12 1 Letter WE’RE ON from FACEBOOK the AND TWITTER! SEPT has joined the world of social networking and is now on Facebook and Twitter. Editor Our Facebook page is called SEPT NHS and can be found by going to It’s all change at SEPT – new staff, www.facebook.com/SEPTNHS new members, new services, new locations and a new look Our Twitter profile is @SEPTNHS. What’s Twitter? members’ magazine. We have Twitter is a real-time changed One in Four to SEPT information network that News to reflect the change in What’s Social connects you to the latest the services we now provide. information about what Contents The title One in Four was chosen Networking? you find interesting. Simply Social-networking sites “make invisible because one in four people find the public streams you social networks visible” by allowing us will experience a mental health find most compelling and to see (with pictures and links) who our problem, but now that we have follow the conversations. friends are, who our friends’ friends are, community physical health Meet your and who our friends’ friends’ friends are combined with mental health At the heart of Twitter are -- all in an easy-to-use interface. services we have changed the small bursts of information Governors name to reflect the integrated called Tweets. Each Tweet Think about what happens when you organisation. is 140 characters in length, Page 4 meet someone new. You ask where they but don’t let the small work, where they grew up, where they SEPT News is also in a newspaper size fool you—you can went to school. Eventually, you realise format so that we can cram more share a lot with a little that your childhood friend used to work news in for you and keep the space. Connected to each with this guy. Even though you’ve never costs down. Many of you had Tweet is a rich details pane met before, you’re both part of the same commented on the cost of the that provides additional social network -- a friend of a friend. glossy magazine format so we information, deeper My Story listened and have changed the context and embedded Through social networking, people design and weight of paper – media. You can tell your Page 9 can use networks of online friends which also helps with reducing story within your Tweet, or and group memberships to keep in postage charges. you can think of a Tweet as touch with current friends, reconnect the headline, and use the with old friends or create real–life I hope you enjoy this issue and as details pane to tell the rest friendships through similar interests or always we are happy to receive with photos, videos and groups. Besides establishing important contributions to the magazine. other media content. social relationships, social networking These can be a personal members can share their interests with Important story, photos or volunteering other like–minded members by joining opportunities you have enjoyed. groups and forums. Contact Please send them to me by email What Will SEPT Be

to [email protected] Numbers or by post to Communications, What’s Facebook? Doing? We’ll be using Facebook and Twitter to Pride House, Christy Close, Facebook is a social engage directly with people who have Page 19 Southfields Industrial Estate, network site that started an interest in SEPT and the services we Basildon SS15 6EA out strictly for university provide. We’ll be uploading photos, students and was advertising events and sharing links, Thank you for joining SEPT and I available by invitation videos and news. hope you enjoy your magazine. only. Now, it is a cultural

phenomenon stretching You’ll be able to provide us with Coming Maxine Forrest across the globe. With Editor the most worldwide feedback but please note these are open Soon users, Facebook has taken forums and therefore views expressed hold as undisputable are not necessarily the views of SEPT. Page 20 leader amongst social networking sites. Social networking sites are not a referral system. If you are worried about your health then please contact your GP.

2 Personal Healthcare Plan Website WE’RE ON SEPT in tune Winner Announced To Celebrate National Self-Help Week Improving the health and PHP is way of empowering with you – in wellbeing of people with Long individuals with LTC’s to be able FACEBOOK Term Condition (LTC) is one of to take greater ownership and the greatest challenges and responsibility for their care and hospital, in the opportunities facing the health to have more control over the service. To help those with LTC’s management of their condition”. a dedicated Personal Healthcare AND TWITTER! Personal Health Plans also

Plan (PHP) website, www. community and known as Personalised Care myhealthplan.see.nhs.uk , has Planning is a key tool to support been developed to promote, the personalisation of health engage and equip patients with care and constitutes a significant in your home all the necessary information part of the Department of and support they require. Health’s NHS reforms. The Feedback from patients target is to offer those with LTC who have participated on a PHP and to empower our Welcome to our Winter 2012 where local people need it. Court is located in the the website, have found LTC patients with information edition of SEPT News. And We have had two elections Bedford Health Village which it informing, practical and through a more joined-up, and

welcome to our new staff this year and details of our is where I will ‘cut the turf’ useful. Downloading their own coordinated services approach and public members. I am new governors are below. I in early 2012 for the new personal health plan (PHP) on centred on their needs. This absolutely delighted that we wish to pay tribute to those inpatient unit. This new state the website enabled them to will result in more patient have been successful this whose terms of office were of the art, modern purpose participate in an incentive draw. confidence and ability to self- year in acquiring staff and completed in 2011. Thank built unit will replace all the care. services from three highly you for your time, expertise services currently provided The prize draw gave performing community and enthusiasm. I hope you in Weller Wing at Bedford the patient the health organisations. will still be involved with Hospital and is planned for choice of an IPOD Bedfordshire, West Essex and SEPT as a member and keep completion in December shuffle or vouchers South East Essex all bring in touch. 2013. to improve lifestyle with them an excellent and was presented to reputation for providing high I am also so pleased to report In 2014 we will be winner Peter Marlow ‘ quality services to the local that our transformation in celebrating the opening of during national people they serve. mental health services in our new hospital but in the self-help week by Bedfordshire and Luton is meantime I would like to take Executive Director Working alongside our on target. As reported last this opportunity to wish all of Business Strategy outstanding mental health time, this year alone we our members a very happy and Development, Peter From left: Peter Wadum-Buhl, SEPT services in Bedfordshire have opened a number and healthy 2012. Wadum-Buhl. Peter said “I am Executive Director of Strategy and and South Essex, these of refurbished units, and I If you would like to comment delighted with the take up, Business Development, Mr Peter community health services can confirm that we have on our services or find out use and feedback we have Marlow, prize-winning patient, will provide an integrated transferred the patients from more about mental health, received since launching this Kim Rowland, Community Matron, network of care; and in West the substandard conditions learning disability and website for patients with long Flora Baafuo-Awuah, Rob Stow Essex and Luton, we will be in Milton Ward at Weller Wing community health services, term conditions. PHP is a crucial and Debbie Sevant, all from SEPT’s working in partnership with to brand new facilities in the please get in touch with me tool to ensure better outcomes South East Essex Community our NHS colleagues ensuring extension just completed at at [email protected]. for those with LTC’s as well as Services Long Term Conditions that an effective and efficient Fountains Court. Fountains uk. reducing NHS cost pressures. Team. service is provided when and

Peter Jefferson – Nursing Staff SEPT Chief Executive, Dr Patrick Election Results The most recent results of the elections in West Essex Geoghegan OBE said; “I would The election results The newly elected governors are listed were announced at the Board of Governors meeting on like to extend my appreciation for Governors to below: Tuesday 6 December 2011 at the Rufus Centre, Flitwick, to everyone who participated represent South Essex Public Governors Bedfordshire. in this year’s Board of Governors Partnership University South Essex: elections. There were multiple NHS Foundation Trust Richard Amner Public Governors entries for every Governor (SEPT) constituency Josie Clark Michael Edmunds vacancy advertised and this members were Pam Hintz Kresh Ramanah year’s calibre of candidate was announced at Southend: Brian Arney outstanding. I am delighted with the Trust’s Annual Shurleea Harding Patrick Joseph Sheehan those who have been elected General Meeting Thurrock: Sudi Sudarsanam to stand as our public and staff on Wednesday 7 Margaret Verity governors and look forward September, held at West Essex Staff Governor to working with them. I would the The Green Centre, Staff Governors Maggie Nicholls – Support Staff Tracy Elizabeth Reed like to take this opportunity to Wat Tyler Country welcome our new Governors and Park, Pitsea, Essex. Governor Dr Thilak Ratnayake – Medical Staff Bedfordshire Community Staff hope they flourish in their new Debbie Martin Governor ‘roles in the Trust.” 3 required I thought it would make experience in this area. put together the memory boxes Meet your Governors a change to work in the NHS “A member of my family had of items designed to prompt the rather than education.” a breakdown and, following a clients to remember their past We are a cornerstone in the Sue’s application was not nasty car accident a few years which was launched earlier this foundation of the Trust, and a successful the first time round ago I was shocked by the year. very important one at that! but subsequently she was asked psychological effect on me. to join SEPT when a vacancy Before that I had never thought “My husband was for four What is your vision for an occurred, around six months I could be that way inclined but and half years in a hospital in integrated mental health and later. if they are honest, everyone, at Northampton which was such community service? some level, has had a time when a long way away. I used to It has always been said that Although she is still fairly new to they could not cope and needed make the journey three times mental nursing is from the the role, Sue has enjoyed all the support to some degree. a week, and to now have him just down the road is wonderful. Shurleea Harding, Public neck up, and ‘general’ from the meetings and conferences she “If we are want the best in the I’m so thankful he is being really Governor – Southend-on-Sea neck down! I hope very much has taken part in so far. NHS we have to see that physical that this integration will be a She said: “I’m impressed with and mental health are two parts looked after. I had him home for Shurleea has been a dedicated marriage between the two, and SEPT. I really like the leadership of the same whole. That is what a few weeks and thought I could supporter of SEPT for many folk will realise that you cannot at the top. I like the fact that their comes through strongly from cope but reluctantly realised he years now and embarks on her have any health without mental attitude is we can and will make the top at SEPT and that is what needed more help than I could second term of office as a public health. It is about time we a difference. I like.“ physically give him as it is a governor. Chairing the Time to talked of all health issues under round-the clock role.” “Obviously it’s going to take time Change working group she has one banner and I hope this In order to achieve this, Sue has and you have to be careful how The couple had been married for organised a number of events marriage will be a very long and a vision for integrated mental you deal with people who do 19 years and their five children across Essex to promote mental successful one! health and community services. not want or accept the change, were aged between 17 and five health and reduce the stigma She said: “My vision is that but the organisation has the when he was diagnosed with that surrounds the people it by combining services the determination to ensure there is mental illness. Although George affects. Her experience and individual’s needs will be better a better outcome for individuals. managed to hold down a full- energy is invaluable and look served and supported rather That is what I like as that was the time job, Pam had to step in as out for more events coming in than by offering fragmented ethos throughout my teaching his carer, a role that increased 2012. departments. With this I also years: striving for the best you believe that employees will over the years. What inspired you to become a can provide.” achieve greater job satisfaction Since her move to Shenfield, governor? which in itself will improve and her husband’s care coming Having been in mental health She added: “I love the buzz provision.” under SEPT, Pam has been a since the days of lunatic and challenge of change, and carer volunteer in the Patient asylums, long before any although it is early days we are Sue Phillips Public Involvement Team mental health act, and seen already seeing a positive impact Public Governor – Central and it was through this she so many positive change in on outcomes and potential Bedfordshire learned about the role of public mental health care over the to improve services for the governor. She said: “I had past few years, I felt it was time At the end of a 30-year career individual. I am seeing a very previously been interested in mental health was talked about in teaching Sue Phillips was clear leadership and am enjoying applying to be a Public Governor, on every high street, in every looking for a new area in which being part of the beginnings of but could not commit the time school and college, and being to channel her skills. the changes at a local level.” involved. As my husband is now a governor has given me the Sue sees the governors’ role as in long-term care, I do have the opportunity to do just that, Having retired as a primary multi-faceted; from listening, time and feel I really want to give school head teacher, and with learning and understanding to Pam Hintz something back to SEPT. What have you enjoyed so far? the novelty of having lots of feeding back, challenging and Public Governor - South Essex Having a real say in how services holidays wearing off, Sue had questioning directors’ initiatives “I want to be a voice for those are delivered, being able to time on her hands which she and decisions. WITH 30 years experience of service users and carers in make a real difference, being the wanted to fill with something caring for her husband who has the community, who are patients voice, and seeing them that would make a contribution She added: “I also see governors mental health problems, and an experiencing the same things taking the lead re their own to society. as being responsible for extremely comprehensive career that I went through, often care. Positive changes go a long supporting the directors lead behind her, Pam Hintz is an ideal feeling they do not have a say in make life so much better for all She explained: “I had worked in enabling communications to in schools in Luton and candidate for the role of SEPT decisions being made. patients. It is very rewarding take place in a supportive, open governor. to know that small things can Bedfordshire throughout and honest environment. my career, spending the last “My qualifications for this role are make such a big difference, and The mother of five has lived my life experiences which were make patients feel they really 12 years as a head teacher. I “I think as governors we need in Shenfield, Essex for the was planning to undertake often on a bumpy path meeting matter, when it matters most! to come to a full understanding past eight years, moving from many crossroads and having to consultation work for the what our roles are. We must stop Newham, east London to be make difficult decisions. I might What role do the governors county after retirement but thinking it is something that is closer to her family. not know all the answers but I play in the Trust? budget restrictions meant done to us and see that it is up am committed, to the best of my A very important one, we share that did not go ahead, so I was Her husband, George, 78, who to us to influence outcomes. ability, to ensuring the quality our views, they listen, they act! looking for something else. has schizophrenic affective “The governors are very willing of care, dignity and support We highlight issues raised by “I became involved with disorder, Parkinson’s Disease and and capable and I know the to carers and service users is members, we can influence several voluntary sections by diabetes, now lives in a local NHS leadership want us to be much upheld and available.” decisions, ensure that the supporting the running of their more involved at a grass roots hospital care home where she services promised are delivered, administration and helping to level and submit our feedback to visits him every day. Pam spent 25 years working for challenge issues that cause us promote their vision and values. them.” Pam said: “I am so pleased we Newham Council in a variety concern and promote ideas “I saw the request for people found Mountnessing Court as of departments, finally in social that could improve service to become governors at SEPT, Sue admits she does not have a it is like a home from home. services and housing. When she delivery, that helps build a and as I had many years of great deal of knowledge about The staff are so caring and retired from full time work she better service for all concerned. experience with the skills mental health but has had some supportive. I enjoyed helping took on a role in MP Stephen Timm’s constituency office in “We must also hold the Board the House of Commons. A job in of Governors to account on Open day at Saffron Walden the Corps of Commissionaires, decisions made and, where Britain’s oldest security firm, appropriate, supporting followed, which saw Pam be decisions effectively for the Community Hospital part of the temporary security benefit of the community. team at various high profile Another vital part of our work is SEPT Chief Executive Dr Patrick Among the attractions was a stall There was also a display by events. She was also a lay visitor recruiting new members to the Geoghegan OBE cut a ribbon to by the local branch of Breathe members of the healthy living for the Metropolitan Police Trust. get Saffron Walden Community Easy, a support group for people team who support people in Authority ensuring detainees Hospital’s open day off to a flying with chronic breathing problems making healthy lifestyle choices were being cared for properly at “I have a lot to learn and will start on 15 October 2011. and their carers, an exhibition such keeping their weight in police stations and a governor endeavour to fulfil my role as of medical equipment and old check and stopping smoking. Patrick was on hand to meet uniforms and a test of how of a special school in Newham. Public Governor in the best and greet visitors who had the well people clean their hands. Staff nurse Mel Grout said: “The In recent years Pam has also interest of the constituents of opportunity to have their blood There was also a stand by the event was a real success. We supported two of her daughters Brentwood.” pressure checked and to find Crossroads Care Uttlesford, a non- managed to raise £520 on the in their battles with breast out more about the history of As to the future, Pam has a profit making charity providing raffle and tombola combined. cancer. their local hospital. It provides vision for integrated mental high quality home-based respite We did around 40 blood pressure broad range of community health and community services. breaks for carers. checks and picked up three that Although only elected in services from physiotherapy and She said: “I wish this service were abnormal and one person September, Pam is already speech and language therapy to had been introduced thirty Roy Birch, a SEPT volunteer for with an abnormal pulse who fully embracing her role as numerous outpatient clinics as years ago, it would have had a service users and carers, was have been sent for follow-ups SEPT public governor. She well as inpatient beds on Avocet on hand to recruit visitors as with their GPs.” dramatic impact on the number explained: “I am really enjoying Ward. Foundation Trust members. the involvement and contact of initial referrals many of whom with service users, carers and now suffer side effects of long- SEPT staff. I love being part of a term medication ending up in team and being able to express institutional care and not being concerns and bring them to the able to live at home and enjoy notice of other governors. This family life in the community. experience has also enabled “For this service to be successful me to widen my knowledge of it needs careful planning and current policies and documents monitoring on an individual relevant to mental health. “I also basis. It needs a 24-hour day, like attending conferences and seven day a week helpline workshops as I find each one is available to service users and a learning experience.” carers, which would, I hope, go a long way to help enable Pam believes the most people to continue working important role for governors and living at home. is being a voice for the “The service should also community. She said: “It is monitor the physical health as our job to help to remove well as mental health of patients the stigma of mental health ensuring their safety and and promote the aims and wellbeing in the community.” objectives of the Trust. ‘Patrick is pictured cutting the ribbon with Outpatients Sister Stephanie Honour and Staff Nurse Mel Grout.’ NHS urges ‘at risk’ groups who died from flu last year in “But flu is preventable and we are condition including diabetes, to protect themselves from the UK were aged 15 to 64 years. urging all Bedfordshire and Luton asthma, liver disease, kidney Everyone aged 65 and over is residents in ‘at risk’ groups to book disease or heart or chest seasonal flu routinely offered the jab, as are an appointment with their GP problems; younger people with medical practice to have their free jab. • people undergoing medical The NHS is urging people in ‘at risk’ conditions such as heart disease, treatment who may have a groups to protect themselves from diabetes, multiple sclerosis, kidney “The flu vaccine has been compromised immune system; this year’s seasonal flu. thoroughly tested and so is very and liver disease. • people with a neurological safe and effective. The vaccines condition such as multiple GP practices across the country Pregnant women, at any stage of cannot cause flu as they do not are now running seasonal sclerosis (MS) or cerebral palsy; pregnancy, are also being advised contain the live virus, so any • people living in a residential or flu vaccination clinics to get vaccinated, as they are more side-effects are rare and minor and patients are being nursing home; and prone to complications from flu compared to the risks associated • a main carer for an elderly or advised to book an that can cause serious illness for with flu. appointment now so disabled person whose welfare both mother and baby. Carers and may be at risk if they fall ill. that they are protected those living in residential or nursing “If people are unsure whether they before flu starts to homes are also eligible for the free should be getting vaccinated or if The best way to protect against circulate. vaccine. they would like further information flu is to get immunised, but in then they should contact their GP Although the majority addition, people can protect Gerry Taylor, NHS Luton Director practice.” themselves and others by of older people get their flu of Public Health, said: “Flu is not vaccine each year, the NHS is practicing good hand hygiene with the same as getting a cold. Its People who can get the flu jab free the Catch It, Bin It, Kill It technique. particularly warning people under symptoms are more severe, last of charge on the NHS include: 65, who have certain medical This means covering coughs and longer and for some it can lead to • anyone aged 65 or over; sneezes with a tissue, disposing conditions, not to underestimate more serious illnesses, resulting in • pregnant women (in any stage of flu. of the tissue after one use, and a spell in hospital and sadly even pregnancy); cleaning hands as soon as possible. • anyone with a long-term Figures show that 70% of people death. 5 Hello – a year to help all children communicate 2011 was an exciting year have attended public events and August was a month to for Speech and Language including the Leighton Buzzard highlight how some people Therapists across the country Picnic in the Park and Luton have difficulty communicating as it was the National Year Picnic in the Park. These events in even the most basic way. Launch marks vital step of Speech, Language and provided an opportunity for Communication. National therapists to talk to parents SEPT’s Speech and Language and local events were being and other professionals Therapy Team in south east for ‘end of life’ care organised to run throughout about speech, language and Essex celebrated the National “One 81 year-old woman dies to develop and deliver the 2011. A Communication communication, providing Year of Communication at a peacefully at home surrounded project including carers of Champion and Communication general advice and information. free sand sculpture event on by her loving family. Another people with dementia, the Council were set up to help Chalkwell Beach. Children dies afraid and alone on a trolley Alzheimer’s Society, the local carry forward the Government’s The highlight of the year was a and parents got involved by just hours after being admitted provider of mental health Better Communication Action conference held in October at helping the therapists to do to hospital. Why the difference? services (North Essex Partnership Plan, which was developed in the Rufus Centre in Flitwick. their “speech on the beach” by Both women had been NHS Foundation Trust), St Clare response to the independent The morning conference was spelling out in sand a huge diagnosed with a terminal illness Hospice, Marie Curie, the family Bercow Review into services for practitioners working with ‘HELLO’ - the National Year of but the first had cancer and the support charity Autumn Years, in England for children children and the afternoon Communication’s logo. second dementia.” and local GPs. with speech, language and conference was for those Phil established a stakeholder communication needs. working with adults with The “Hello” logo was be made These two real-life cases were group that met every month communication difficulties. The up of sandcastles and other the stimulus to a stakeholder for nine months to explore how The Bedfordshire Speech and conferences aimed to highlight sand sculptures, with therapists partnership to deliver a real to solve the problem of some Language Therapy Service were the impact of communication giving each young child who difference to the experience of people with dementia not very pro-active and they had a difficulties on people’s lives took part a special flag with people with dementia as they getting the palliative care they working party in place for the and to enhance the knowledge speech tips on it to top off their near the end of their lives. need as they near death. national year since 2010. The and understanding of Speech artistic contributions. And now a major step forward team met with GP practices and Language Therapy within has been taken to close the gap The expanded prognostic across the county to highlight Bedfordshire. The event was attended by the in the quality of end of life care indicator and supporting the role and importance of the Mayor of Southend, Cllr David between different groups of guidance will support health Speech and Language Therapy The children’s conference, Norman, and SEPT’s Director of patients. This has come with the professionals in helping to service both working with ‘Our Children, Our Future, Community Services, Malcolm launch of an end of life pathway ensure that people with children and adults. You Make the Difference’ McCann, who joined in to to help deliver equitable dementia receive the palliative Student talks took place to share featured Jean Gross, the help the parents, children and palliative care services for people care they need. information with the future government appointed National therapists to build the sand with dementia. generation of parents and the Communication Champion as sculptures. SEPT Chief Executive Patrick The guidance includes what is future workforce – students a guest speaker. For the adult’s Geoghegan welcomed carers called “the surprise question” looking to work in childcare, conference, ‘More Than Words SEPT Chief Executive Dr Patrick and health professionals, where the clinician is asked if nursing, teaching etc. One-off – Empowering Communication Geoghegan, OBE, said “These including GPs, to St. Margaret’s they would be surprised if the sessions were organised to work for Impaired Adults’, the team events are just a few of the Hospital, Epping, for the launch person with dementia died with groups of GNVQ Health welcomed Dr Steven Bloch, awareness-raising events within the next three to six The pathway, which includes a and Social Care and/or GCSE NIHR Research Fellow from organised by SEPT’s speech months. If the answer is “no”, prognostic indicator supported Child Development students to University College London. and language teams this year. the clinician is challenged to by more detailed guidance, is raise their awareness of speech The conference was well They are more examples of our identify what measures might the outcome of work by Phil and language development, the attended with both the morning excellent therapists bringing be taken to improve quality of Wing, SEPT’s lead nurse for profession, how to help a child’s and the afternoon being fully their skills and expertise out into life now and at various time community health services speech and language skills etc. booked and deemed an overall the community to help local intervals before death. This will in west Essex, and a team of The team also put together success. people.” help to ensure “the right thing to stakeholders with a common a display on the role of the happen at the right time”. commitment to getting a better Speech and Language Therapy Each month during 2011 deal for people with dementia as As well as “the surprise service. Representatives from had a communication theme they near the end of their lives. question”, the prognostic indicator and guidance cover The indicator and supporting five other potential triggers guidance was developed to identify patients who may after Phil Wing was accepted need supportive/palliative care onto the Royal College of including clinical indicators, Nursing’s prestigious political a pain scale for people with leadership course to pursue her dementia who cannot put commitment to get equitable their thoughts and feeling into palliative care services for people words, evidence of advance care with dementia. planning and a dementia screen to eliminate treatable causes. Phil worked with a range of Saying it with sand at South East Essex event Speech and Language Therapists at conference in individuals and organisations 6 Bedfordshire airy and are cleaned every day family. Central to the ward and more often if necessary. was a modern dining room; LET’S TALK ABOUT... The bedspreads and curtains all the food is cooked on site A new series of events designed being listened to and taken Debbie Buck said: “If a valid and all matched in nice bright with a very varied menu. All to engage and inform service seriously.” applicable advance decision modern designs, it was just so the furnishings were nice soft users, members and staff has exists it has the same effect as very homely. The relationship colours and anything damaged, taken off across SEPT. ‘Let’s Talk “Staff are saying they like it if the patient has capacity and between staff and the clients no matter how slightly, is About…’ events are a great as well because from their makes an informed decision to was so warm and made it hard removed and replaced. All opportunity to hear the latest perspective it allows them to refuse treatment.” to want to leave! Noticeable, bedrooms are en suite and news and developments from have a much more meaningful were gentle curves in the furnished with a dressing table, expert speakers on a range of relationship and to understand • Ask someone to witness your corridors, unlike old institutions, a wardrobe and a bed with interesting topics. a person in a much more signature. so that patients felt more at ease. ‘memory foam’ mattresses. On meaningful way” – he added. Kay Sookun, Patient and Public Check out the back of this The whole environment oozed arrival each patient receives Involvement Manager said: Advance Statements and newspaper for upcoming ‘Let’s care, warmth and kindness. a welcome pack with towel “The events are both interactive Advance Decisions Talk About…’ event. and toiletries, very welcoming and informative and there People who suffer from mental There is a ward for youngsters for someone admitted in an are plenty of opportunities to ill health are often concerned up to the age of 18. Regular emergency who may have ask questions and get a full about how decisions about Valkyrie PPG schooling is maintained which nothing with them but what understanding of the topic. their medical treatment would is structured and the children they stand up in! Everyone is welcome to attend, be made if they lost the ability meets SEPT! help to plan the agenda. There especially service users, carers to decide for themselves. With One of the bonuses of being an is a cookery room where there On leaving we had lunch at The and SEPT members and no prior this in mind another ‘Let’s Talk active member of the Valkyrie is an ‘Aids to Daily Living’ kitchen Herb Garden Restaurant; which knowledge is required.” About…’ event was dedicated Patients Participating Group where skills can be relearned or is open to patients, staff and the to advance statements and is being made aware of the developed, an art room and a general public for snacks or a Recovery Star advance decisions. branches of the health care. computer room, which helps to cooked lunch. This is an effort The first ‘Let’s Talk About…’ Most recently we were invited train patients in basic computers to bridge the gap between events were dedicated to Clinical Group Manager, to visit Rochford Hospital. skills. Help is always on hand mental health and the general the Recovery Star approach. Debbie Buck said: “An advance Members of the group received along with a trained teaching public, we found it very busy The Recovery Star is a tool for statement is a general a very warm welcome from Jan staff. It was difficult to take in and popular with a good varied supporting and measuring statement of your wishes and Porter, Matron. All the drab old that this was a mental health menu. change when working with views. It allows you to state your buildings that we remembered hospital, it was so warm and adults of working age who preferences and indicate what Prior to leaving we met up, by had gone, having been homely! are accessing mental health treatment or care you would chance, with Chief Exec, Prof replaced with beautiful modern services. The Recovery Star like to receive should you, in the Patrick Geoghegan, who came buildings. We then visited other wards. enables organisations to future, be unable to decide for and chatted to us, his warmth Maple is an assessment unit and friendliness made it clear measure and summarise the yourself. It can include non- Jan led us through a welcoming for older patients with organic why everyone spoke so highly progress being made by service medical things such as your brightly decorated reception food preferences or whether illnesses. A stay on Maple ward is of him, patients on the wards all users and the service being area with wooden floors and a delivered. you would prefer a bath to a for as long as required after their appeared to see him as a casual beautiful ‘wall of marble lights’ shower.” initial assessment until patients friend who looks after them! that changes colour as we Service Development Manager, can return home or a suitable A fabulous day, one that walked past. We were told about Mark Travella said: “Service users The Mental Capacity Act 2005 placement is found such as will ensure we will never the colony of bats that had are saying they really like the gives people in England and Rawreth Court also run by SEPT. fear needing their services. been retained in a specially built Recovery Star because it makes Wales a statutory right to refuse Congratulations to all the staff area at the back of the hospital Willow Ward Manager, Vera them feel like they are being treatment, through an ‘advance for making our visit such a warm housed above the Herb Garden Norman, showed us around the listened to and that their needs decision’. An advance decision one, and for opening our eyes allows a person to state what Restaurant … even they had acute admission ward. Although are being understood and to the vast changes in mental respected in a way they haven’t forms of treatment they would been cared for to the same high there are mixed sex communal health care, it has to be seen to been before. The Recovery Star or would not like should they standard we were about to see areas, there were also single be believed! allows for such in-depth work become unable to decide for for the patients! sex lounges and sleeping areas Thank You! on so many areas of someone’s themselves in the future. on the ward. There are also life they really do feel they are Firstly we went to ‘a section ‘quiet rooms’ where patients Estelle, Stuart, Valerie and 136’ suite where clients may be might like to sit alone or with Shurleea brought in an emergency by the police or emergency services. There was a discreet entrance to avoid embarrassment to the client and their families during what could be a troubled times. We were most impressed with the thought that had gone into the design of this unit and the consideration given to the client and their family Fittings and fixtures had built in safety features to protect patients from harm, but designed to blend in with the environment and still appear natural and homely. Kay Sooken, Stacey Smith, Mark Travella and Jo Hodge pictured Rooms were bright and 6 at a recent Let’s Talk About event. Valkyrie Visitors pictured with SEPT directors. 7 Queen’s Park Neighbourhood Centre Receives Highest Ofsted Recognition Queen’s Park Neighbourhood going into Reception. I’m both Centre is one of 15 children’s Centre is the first Surestart excited and looking forward to the centres within the local authority. Children’s Centre in Bedford centre’s future projects. Local communities highly value Borough to be graded Children’s Centres as they provide “outstanding” by Ofsted inspectors The Neighbourhood Centre is arrangements for parents-to- who stated in their report: funded by Bedford Borough be and families with young Council and provided by SEPT children, including wider family “The work of the centre is highly Community Health Services members such as grandparents, valued, is changing lives and Bedfordshire in and is now in the to access early childhood services improving the chances of your elite 14% of children’s centres and access to neighbourhood children and families…” in the country to achieve an activities. They are a local port of The Neighbourhood Centre “outstanding” grade. This is call when a mother, father or carer delivers outstanding results with because of the contribution it needs help or advice; whether that excellent proven outcomes both makes to the lives of families and is in relation to their role as parent/ health and educationally for children in the local community; carer, or their child’s well-being or Professor Frank Besag (seated right) pictured with Dr. Patrick families and their children in the and how it is helping to reduce learning and development. Geoghegan and contributors to the journal Queens Park area. the “gap” in attainment between those children that come from Cllr David Sawyer, Portfolio holder Jo Burnett, Centre Manager South more wealthy backgrounds and for Education at Bedford Borough New Journal by Essex Partnership Trust (SEPT): said those that come from less wealthy Council, said: “We are so proud that the excellent backgrounds in a difficult time of work we do here has been economic deprivation and public “Children’s Centres such as the Psychiatrists one located in Queen’s Park are acknowledged – we celebrated on spending cuts. A new journal called ‘Cutting Edge Psychiatry in Practice’ receiving the recognition they Friday 18 November when we held Details of Ofsted’s report (CEPiP) has been published. This journal is unique because deserve. The assistance they a celebration party with our local which focused on Queen’s it has been produced in partnership with GPs – for GPs. offer to parents and carers to families and children. We really Park Neighbourhood Centre With the upcoming changes to the NHS it is vital that GPs enable them to raise happy and are in the heart of the community highlighted that the centre and psychiatrists in training are provided with up-to-date well balanced individuals, is so here and this means a lot to provides high quality services... information of practical value which is exactly what CEPiP important. Raising children can be everyone we work with” the centre’s management, staff hopes to achieve. A local parent who attends the and governors of the centre have a daunting responsibility however Centre added: “I’ve been attending strong visions and set very high the centres offer information, The Editor-in-Chief is Professor Frank Besag who has the the Neighbourhood Centre for standards. advice and assistance relating to support of a large editorial group of GP’s and doctors. The four years. First with my eldest childcare at every turn along the first issue focused on the management of schizophrenia son and now with my second. Queen’s Park Neighbourhood way!” and includes papers from world leaders such as Prof I have witnessed the centre Peter Jones, Cambridge, on epidemiology, Prof Nick develop and grow from strength Craddock, Cardiff, on genetics and Prof Rochelle Caplan, to strength. The centre recognises USA, on childhood schizophrenia. It also contains an cultural differences and offers a extraordinarily creative and moving account from a service that suits its community. young man with schizophrenia. This issue covers both the Parents and professionals working scientific and practical aspects of managing the condition. together. My children enjoy For example, there are contributions summarising the attending the centre, as I do. At world literature on the effectiveness of antipsychotic the centre you receive support, medication and there are also papers on how the Mental reassurance and friendship. My Health Act and Community Treatment Orders should son has another two years before be applied in practice. The journal is available online at: http://www.cepip.org/ Local Psychiatrists Organise International Conference SEPT Psychiatrists, Dr Mark of Cambridge. The biennial number of Fellows and Senior Slovenia with ever growing have attracted world class Agius, Dr Rashid Zaman and conference hosted a number Fellows, including individuals links with other European speakers and international Dr Nadeem Kotwal, have once of experts and opinion leaders of International repute. The countries. Since its inception participants that has resulted again organised, through the from around the world in the primary aims of BCMHR-CU is to the Centre has organised a in international collaborations. Bedfordshire Centre For Mental field of mental health research. foster collaborations between number of successful major These conferences have moved Health Research in association researchers/clinicians from both international conferences in to Cambridge since 2005 and with Cambridge University an The formation of Bedfordshire academic and non-academic field of mental health, which are held biennially. International Conference on Centre for Mental Health backgrounds in subjects related Mental Health, thus further Research in association with to Psychiatry. It has been behind cementing SEPT’s position as a the University of Cambridge formation of close academic world class Mental Health Trust (BCMHR-CU) was announced by links between University of delivering excellent services to Prof. Peter Jones in November Cambridge and South Essex its service users. 2003, during the 4th Luton Partnership University NHS International conference. The Foundation Trust (SEPT). Indeed The conference took place on centre is co-directed by SEPT’s the collaborations have gone 8-10 September 2011 at the Dr Rashid Zaman and Professor beyond UK and has involved Cancer Research UK Auditorium, Peter Jones with SEPT’s Dr Mark number of countries, including, Addenbrookes Hospital site Agius as its Senior Research Bosnia, Croatia, Czech Republic, which is part of the University Fellow and secretary. It now has Italy, Malta, Slovakia and Delegates enjoy networking time at the conference 8 Through SEPT David mental breakdown, and was He said: “In my opinion, has discovered admitted into hospital where schizophrenia may be helped My Story the Bedford Day he was diagnosed with clinical with good diet. I eat lots of Resource Centre, depression. fruit and carbohydrates such as David Holloway and Infinite 29 pasta and bread, but maybe not which is a group He explained: “I also began to enough vegetables as I should. of creative thought block, where I would I believe Olanzapine has been individuals with suppress every thought I was the major factor in my recovery, mental health having because I feared that I and my weight gain on this drug problems who was dying, and I believed that has been controlled by using my encourage each I could hear other people’s knowledge of physiology from other to express thoughts. University. David has also used themselves creatively “I suffered brain damage his skills to help others. and extend their and this resulted in a type of talents. retardation that seemed to rob “I suffer with a very persistent me of my higher level thinking. delusion which is that presenters David said: “I’ve been I’ve watched programmes on on the television can see me. I

1 along to a couple of television with young adults know it’s not possible, and I’ve meetings and made some who have had brain damage had some success with letting A COLOURFUL Life’ is how acknowledge friends and as a result my after an accident, such as falling go of it. It’s not logical to believe David Holloway describes his interests in sculpture and from a height and hitting their in this delusion, but that is why schizophrenia. some of the pain in my life. I photography have been head, and my life was exactly like I know I am still unwell, and not would say it is therapeutic.” nurtured and I’m now really that for three years.” completely recovered. I have a It is also the title of his first book looking forward to extending Despite his illness David went blogging website where I have of poetry which draws strongly David has taken his therapy my skills in these areas.” to college to where he gained helped people to create a ‘false on his experiences of mental and hobby and turned into a a BTEC national diploma in perceptions’ diary. This is a list of illness and aims to provide source of income due to his Despite suffering from mental engineering. He said: “At college delusions: a description of the inspiration and comfort to other determination not to become a health problems for half his I regained my mental power of delusion and whether it can be sufferers. prisoner of his schizophrenia. lifetime, David’s optimistic, can- problem solving, but I was not removed by the psyche through Writing verse is just one of the do approach means he now fully able to understand fairly a similar method of cognitive ways David, 32, has discovered He said: “Most people with leads a successful and fulfilled complex concepts. I did find the behavioural therapy (CBT).” he can deal with his condition. schizophrenia that I know are life. course very hard work but I was David also credits his family for He explained: “Poetry is what locked inside a life of fear, and Articulate, fulfilled and in a determined to succeed.” their support in his recovery. makes my soul ‘dance’ and it shock and resentment. loving relationship with a Unfortunately David’s, He said: “People do amazing helps me to escape this illness “In the pursuit of a career I woman 11 years his junior, schizophrenia returned things for love. My mother had and take on a new life. My have managed to empower David’s determination not to let following the death of his father to put up with me, she is a poems say what is deep inside myself by writing a blog on the his mental health issues rule his when he was 20, and was not mental health nurse now and my subconscious, things that I Internet about schizophrenia life are an inspiration to others. properly diagnosed until he was my brother started to study may or may not be aware of that and poetry, writing books, and David, who is originally from 22. David continued with his schizophrenia at University in have hurt me or helped me in web designing. This has given Derbyshire but moved to education at 25 when he started psychology, which is an amazing life. me financial prospects as well Bedford six years ago, first taking a BSc with honours in turn of events. We have had as helping to control my stress became ill at 16 after being sport and physical education, at some great discussions about “I sometimes don’t know levels. I’ve found it is easier to exposed to solvents for six the University of Bedfordshire. my condition.” what I am writing or what it is gain respect from other people weeks on a school work Knowledge gained through his exactly I want to say. This may if you have a positive career experience job, in a laboratory study has helped David with his See back page for details on how be because I don’t want to outlook.” with no air ventilation. schizophrenia. to get a copy of David Holloway’s He suffered a complete book.

Dawn Law, Karine Hayzer, SEPT Chief Executive Dr Patrick Geoghegan OBE and event Time To Change organiser Shurleea Harding pictured at the Mental Health Market Local Psychiatrists Organise International Conference Mental Health Market In Basildon Monday 10 October 2011 was World Mental Health Day and SEPT alongside local mental health organisations MIND and RETHINK once again participated in the latest Time to Change public event to challenge mental health stigma. Organised by a local Time To Change working group this year’s event is the third as part of the current three year national campaign whch will be extended until 2015 with £4 million of funding from the Department of Health. A mental health market was held in Town Square Basildon on Thursday 6 October, with 38 stalls covering all aspects of mental health wellbeing and was opened by SEPT Chief Executive Dr Patrick Geoghegan OBE. mentally well. Mental ill health carries as much risk of heart disease as smoking, and SEPT, Mind and Rethink staffed stalls giving advice on mental health and the local exercise helps to combat this and also reduces stress levels. support available and there was also be a wide range of entertainers giving ideas on how to keep fit, improve your mental health wellbeing and have fun at the Shurleea Harding, Time To Change Champion and Event Organiser, says: “Exercise is same time, including that included Dancers and Belly Dancers, Zumba Dancers, part of an overall healthy lifestyle, treating the body with the respect it deserves. It Wheelchair Dancing, Cheerleaders and Gospel singers. In addition to challenging has long been understood that mind and body work together. Exercise is good for stigma, the Time To Change event is a reminder that physical activity is very you physically and mentally. Exercise and physical activity can be as effective as anti- important to feeling depressants in treating mild to moderate depression. 9 Making A Difference in Beds and Luton 10 Reducing Stigma and having fun in Basildon 11 Making A Difference FOR Mental Health

A community group in Bedfordshire and Luton have been making a difference in the world of mental health. The ‘Make a Difference’ (MAD) Group have an interest in mental wellbeing. Some members have experienced mental health problems themselves, or have friends and relatives who have been unwell, others work in the field of mental wellbeing.

The MAD group work closely with the national campaign ‘Time to Change’ - England’s biggest ever attempt to end the stigma and discrimination that faces people with mental health problems.

This two page spread gives an account of the groups achievements during 2011.

High five record for The group organised for to challenge the stigma and Harpur Square in Bedford as well Group Member, Keir Gale said: world mental health day the attempt to take place discrimination associated with as at Sharnbrook Upper School, “I can’t think of a better way to at 10 different sites around mental illness. All of the events Lea Manor High School and celebrate World Mental Health Monday, 10 October was World Bedfordshire, Luton and Essex went really well and I can confirm Community College, Thurleigh Day than by setting a World Mental Health Day and to with participants all high fiving at we have unofficially broken the Lower School, Kymbrook Lower Record. We have had a lot of help celebrate the occasion the MAD 1pm sharp. World Record! Over 2,100 people School, Lincroft Middle School, from the local community and group organised a Guinness took part which is absolutely Putteridge High School and especially from local schools so a Group Coordinator, Gail Dearing World Record attempt for immense!” Community College, Ursula Taylor big thank you to everyone who said: “The aim of the record the most people to high five Lower School and the University took part!” attempt was to raise the profile The group held events in St simultaneously. of Bedfordshire (Polhill Campus). of World Mental Health Day and George’s Square in Luton and

Community play in of ‘Rainbow Redemption’ at search of ‘rainbow the Luton Library Theatre in October was so well received redemption’ by the local community that The Make A Difference (MAD) Group we’re investigating performing a The MAD group organised a in association with Black Writers Production Presents bigger and slicker production in community play called ‘Rainbow 2012”. Redemption’ which was

performed at the Luton Library Rainbow Redemption Living with the myths and Theatre in October. taboos associated with the

term ‘mental health’ is an Working in partnership with the unacceptable feature of life for Black Play Writers Association many. The play deals with the the play explored every day impact and restoration in the situations and the conflicts lives, relationships, hopes and around perceptions of wellbeing. struggles of the key characters

searching for their redemption Group Coordinator, Gail Dearing said: “The two day showing and their pot of gold. Power of film explores mental health stigma

The MAD group held a short film festival in November. Through the power of film, the festival explored the disabling impact of mental health stigma and also signposted festival goers to how they can change attitudes and behaviour towards mental health.

Coordinator, Zara Abbas said: “The film festival raised awareness about the impact of mental health stigma in some minority ethnic communities. One in four people will experience a mental health problem in their lifetime - and those who do are highly likely to face stigma and 12 discrimination from others.” The cost of poor mental ill health, share best practice of meaningful activity on how to respond or sometimes Initial partners include SEPT, health and to support, promote and your mental health cannot be stigma can kick in.” Barnfield College, Jobcentre provide opportunities for undersold and getting back Plus, The Shaw Trust and Mind. The MAD group launched a employment.” into employment new employability partnership is often one of the which will develop a strategy “We will also be providing main aspirations for local organisations to work education and support to for someone with together in promoting access employers to enable them to mental health to employment and educate develop a better understanding problems who employers about how to look of mental ill health and isn’t in work. after mental wellbeing in the maintain a balanced workforce” When someone workplace. – she added. goes off work with a physical Coordinator, Julie Bailie said: The partnership will consist health problem “Poor mental health costs UK of local employers and it’s completely business over £20 billion a year. organisations involved in acceptable but This includes sickness absence, supporting people with mental when someone reduced productivity and the health problems and disabilities is absent due to back into employment. mental ill health cost of replacing staff who leave - colleagues and their jobs because of mental Coordinator, Gail Dearing managers often ill health. The aims of this new said: “Just like everyone has a shy away because partnership are to reduce the physical health we all have a stigma surrounding mental they don’t know mental health. The importance The team behind the Employability Partnership

Young people produce turned the play into a short film. Dearing said: “This film is a short film about mental Stephen Merriman, Assistant fantastic initiative because it has been entirely led by young wellbeing Head Teacher at Lea Manor High School said: “It has been a people. The interactive sessions A play written by two students privilege and a pleasure to be were coordinated by the MAD at Barnfield West Academy in associated with this project. Not Group in partnership with local Luton, Patrice Bailey and Shanice only was the film insightful into organisations including SEPT, Cranfield-Morris (both 13) has teenage mental health problems Puke and Impact MH and we been turned into a professional but a wonderful opportunity plan to rollout the film across the short film called ‘Snap’. for our talented actors to work county.”

with a professional production One teacher said: “I enjoyed ‘Snap’ looks at the pressures company and create a powerful viewing the film and could see facing young people and how short film. Snap should be that the students were engaged, these can impact on mental just the start and we all look especially as it was set in their wellbeing. Topics include forward to the second and third school. It made them more bullying, self harm, abuse and installments.” aware about mental health and relationships. that mental illness is far more Play authors Patrice Bailey and Shanice Cranfield-Morris

Shanice Cranfield-Morris said: common than we all realise. I Patrice Bailey said: “I was inspired “I was shocked to hear that the especially enjoyed the question by my parents to write the script script was being used as a film, and answer session with the because they both work for SEPT I feel proud to see our creation guest speakers. The open forum and actively promote mental come to life.” was very effective in allowing wellbeing in the community. The MAD Group and Lea Manor students an opportunity to ask a I wrote the script to bring mental illness sufferer how she awareness of the intensity of High School held three viewings of ‘Snap’ followed by question copes with life and to ask the having a mental health problem nurse about treatment. Having to young people and also to and answer sessions, led by the Lea Manor Youth Forum, and an the entire year group together educate them about how they information exposé with mental was a step towards everyone can get help.” accepting that mental illness is health organisations manning stalls and handing out leaflets. something not to be ashamed Now performing arts students Students from Lea Manor High School with the Mayor of Luton, MAD Group Coordinator, Gail of. It would be great to see this at Lea Manor High School have rolled out in all schools.” Cllr Don Worlding.

Mad Plans For 2012 – So Far

• Love Luton 2012 Festival Weekend • Further productions of Rainbow • Bedford River Festival Redemption • International Football Tournament • Film Festival • Snap Film Rollout • Luton Cricket Tournament

More details about the group and how you can get involved are available on the website: www.madforwellbeing.com

12 13 Ground Breaking Partnership With SEPT Doctor Speaks at European Faith Organisations Parliament about A ground breaking partnership and Sikhism – between faith organisations the five most and SEPT has been established common faiths in Depression in Bedfordshire and Luton at a Bedfordshire and Dr Mark Agius addressed the professionals. recent Spirituality and Wellbeing Luton. European Parliament in Brussels Conference. Harjinder on 30 September 2011 as part of Dr Agius, based at SEPT’s The conference was organised Bahra, Equality the activities to mark European Weller Wing in Bedford, said by Community Development and Diversity Depression Day. “Having been part of this year’s Worker, Zara Abbas, and Manager said: International Conference on Equality and Diversity Manager, “This partnership This year’s European Depression Mental Health it is both an Harjinder Bahra and explored is fantastic news Day had the theme of ‘Treat and honour and a privilege to the relationship between because spirituality Defeat’ and its objective was to address such an august body spirituality and mental health. and religion often Harjinder Bahra, Zara Abbas and Dr Patrick raise awareness of depression as as the European Parliament on Chief Executive, Dr Patrick becomes more Geoghegan a major Europe wide public issue mental health issues alongside much in common but we are Geoghegan said: “We wanted important in times of distress. to highlight and discuss the so many experts from across becoming increasingly aware of to develop a partnership It is important for not only faith importance of prevention, early Europe speaking about the ways in which some aspects of programme with faith leaders to know about the diagnosis and treatment. fascinating area of mental health spirituality can offer real benefits organisations to help raise services available but also for in their country. SEPT is a leading for mental health. Service users awareness about mental mental health professionals to Dr Mark Agius addressed NHS trust in the UK we are eager are telling us that they have wellbeing and for better recognise and acknowledge the the European Parliament on to learn the good practices gained better self-control, self- signposting to our services to religious and spiritual beliefs ‘Diagnosis and treatment of from others internationally esteem and confidence and address health inequalities.” of their clients as an important unipolar and bipolar depression’ and continue to improve and that they have a new sense of “Research has shown that alternative source of help and thus further cementing SEPT’s we are delighted to share our meaning, hope and peace of religious and spiritual belief support.” position as a truly world class best practices with others from mind.” can play a significant role in The conference included the NHS trust delivering excellent countries including Spain, Italy, Spirituality is not tied to any protecting people from mental overviews of the different faiths services to its service users and France and Germany”. particular religious belief or health problems and SEPT are perspectives on spirituality and employing the very best clinical urging clergy of all faiths to take mental health and also explored tradition. Culture and beliefs a more active role in helping the clinicians’ perspective and can play a part in spirituality people with mental ill health the importance of providing however every person has and to take a lead in challenging spiritual support for patients in their own unique experience the stigma surrounding mental recovery. of spirituality and it can be a illness” – he added. Dr Iqbal Mohiuddin, Consultant personal experience for anyone, Faiths represented at the Psychiatrist said: “Spirituality with or without a religious conference included Buddhism, and psychiatry - on the face of belief. Christianity, Hinduism, Islam it, they do not seem to have Planning Permission Granted for New Unit in Bedford Planning permission has been Bedford.” environment and complement granted for a new Bedford and the existing buildings on the Central Bedfordshire Mental “We are committed to providing site. The layout is designed to Health Unit to be located at modern facilities in a purpose provide a well thought out the Bedford Health Village, built unit that meets the latest clinical model of care that Kimbolton Road, Bedford. safety, privacy and dignity responds to patients, staff and standards which will support visitors” – he added. The new one and two storey the delivery of high quality care The new building will be split mental health unit will for patients” – he added. over two storeys. The ground provide accommodation for SEPT Project Director, Dr floor will consist of a Mental 30 inpatients and will replace Subramanian Krishnan said: Health Act Section 136 Suite Weller Wing which is based at “The care environment can and a 10 bedded Adult Inpatient Bedford Hospital South Wing. have a significant effect on Assessment Unit. The second SEPT’s speech and language therapists in south east the wellbeing of service users, storey will be a 20 bedded Essex marked a monthly milestone in their year-long Dr Patrick Geoghegan OBE, staff and visitors alike. The Admission Service. The final “Hello” campaign by holding a “communication aids only” Chief Executive, said: “I am design of mental health service element will be a Post Graduate evening at a local Italian restaurant. absolutely delighted we’ve been buildings can greatly assist / Satellite Centre. granted planning permission! in the therapeutic care of the The site is on the eastern side of They talked to with each other – and ordered their meals This is the next step in our plans service users, giving a positive Kimbolton Road, between the from the bemused waiters! –using only non-verbal to transform mental health experience for those in our care.” Enhanced Services Centre and communication methods. The therapists commented services in Bedfordshire and Fountains Court, adjoining the how their evening really brought it home how isolating the new build reflects SEPT’s “The new building will be currently vacant Listed Building it can be to not have speech and how important it is to commitment to centralising a contemporary design to Shires House. ensure people have access to communication aids and mental health services within enhance the quality of the built training on how to use them. 14 SEPT Does the PDU Double Taylor Centre’s team celebrate their success SEPT are celebrating a double quality of life of the service user. irrespective of where they success as the Taylor Centre, are delivered from. Southend, and Byron Court, Each initiative under the PDU Billericay, are both Practice had to demonstrate that, even SEPT Chief Executive Dr Development Unit’s (PDU) without additional resources, Patrick Geoghegan OBE, accredited by Leeds University. services can be improved with said: “This is a wonderful creative and innovative ideas achievement and clearly The Taylor Centre was accredited developed by frontline staff, demonstrates the in May and Byron Court was regardless of their position or commitment SEPT staff in reaccredited in October year grade within SEPT. the Southend Team made of working with and accrediting professionalism of all staff and both have been presented in ensuring they are accredited clinical teams, the one awarded working at SEPT”. with plaques to celebrate their The Taylor Centre is the first as a centre of excellence. This is to SEPT’s PDU stand out as success. Community Mental Health a marked achievement for the amongst the very best” Resource Centre in the country Trust and the staff at the Taylor To be accredited each PDU to be awarded PDU Status Centre and I am very proud of all John Baron MP, who was required to fulfil14 distinct and in the history of PDU involved”. unveiled the plaque ay criteria. Practitioners at all accreditation, this is only the Bryon Court recently levels worked together to fourth occurrence in fifteen Helen Chin, Director, Practice congratulated the team demonstrate that they are years that a team has been Development Programme Lead, and said “The team do continually engaging with given Stage Two Accreditation Leeds University, said “The a fantastic job and are service users and carers, at the first PDU Assessment. centrality of Service Users was to be congratulated developing their practices The achievements of the so clear, along with direct and on their hard work. The and tailoring the services to Southend Team are not specific explicit links to evidence based plaque is a deserved meet their needs and provide to a building and the PDU practice and innovation that recognition of the evidence that all the initiatives will enable staff to maintain the assessment exceeded our commitment and MP John Baron pictured with the team at have a positive impact on the the same quality of services expectations. In all my 15 years Byron Court The True Face of Carers SEPT once again celebrated Week was ‘The True Face of on. SEPT is very fortunate as past events. Many carers have developed in partnership Carers Week which ran from Carers’ and highlighted the vital we have a significant number remained in contact with one with SEPT’s local authority 13-19 June with a series of contribution made by carers to of carers who help us to raise another after getting involved in colleagues as well as carers and Roadshows and information their families and communities carer awareness with health and previous events. are displayed prominently on all stands in Essex, Bedfordshire in providing unpaid care for social care staff and contribute Though each Carers SEPT wards and units. and Luton. someone who is ill, frail or to shaping services. Carers are circumstances are different, they Steven Rabbitts, Carers Project Carers provide an essential disabled. helping us to get better as well”. share a common factor ‘They Co-ordinator, said: “Carers often and priceless service to their SEPT Chief Executive Dr The information and advice Care’. The Carers role is a valuable don’t recognise that they are loved ones and Carers Week is Patrick Geoghegan, OBE, said events being held across one, priceless to those they care carers and they don’t know a celebration of their tireless “I am always amazed by the Essex, Bedfordshire and Luton for, so their own wellbeing is support is available. Instead work. Most carers undertake dedication, love and relentless gave carers an opportunity to paramount and taking regular they think they are doing their care for their loved ones without hard work undertaken by carers. share their experiences and to time out for themselves can duty or just helping someone even realising that their role is There are 6 million unpaid provide information about local enable them to cope with but a Carer is any person who legally recognised. Carers Week carers in the UK and the East and national services as well the often rollercoaster road of provides, or intends to provide provides the opportunity to of England has over 520,000 as details on how to receive a caring and offer support where some form of informal care on inform carers of their right to an carers. They often have full carers assessment and support. necessary. a regular basis. A carer could assessment and let them know time jobs and can experience SEPT also hosted some relaxing Following on from these events be a friend, spouse, parent or a what services are available in physical and mental health and fun events for carers. These a series of eye catching posters child under the age of 18 of the their area. difficulties of their own. Yet included a celebration event were launched in November person needing care.” The theme for this year’s Carers they put others first and soldier at Barleylands Craft Village designed to raise awareness of Kay Wright, Carer, said: “The called Caring 4 You carers’ issues and to help identify posters are excellent. The on June 16 for Carers carers and provide the support language is clear and simple of service users from they need. and I can really identify with Coombewood Mental the images. These will definitely Health Resource One out of five carers spends 50 educate carers about the help Centre and Castlepoint hours per week on caring duties and support that’s available.” Community Mental and two thirds of carers believe Mavis Moore, Carer, said: “The Health. Team their health has suffered as a posters will help create more (Knightswick) and result of caring for someone. awareness about carers and Carers Linkworker’s Carla Fourie, Associate Director caring. Being a wife I didn’t see from the area. of Partnerships, said: “Carers are myself as being a carer for my The aim of the event incredibly important people and husband but I now have support was to remind carers the aim of the posters is to help in place and I can spend more ‘You matter too’. It identify carers and to remind time with my family.” serves to give some our staff to identify carers. The time away from posters include information For further information about their caring role and about what makes a person help and advice contact Carers encourage networking a Carer and also the contact Project Co-ordinator Stephen with other carers details of a member of staff who Rabbitts on 01277 265354 or – some of whom can provide support and advice.” email stephen.rabbitts@sept. Mavis Moore, Joyce Culling and Kay Wright show off the eye catching posters may have met at The posters have been nhs.uk. 15 Engaging Young People in Essex The work that I have been doing in Child and “…having a say was empowering to say the least. I have friendly and accessible. Adolescent Mental Health Services has been to say for the first time I actually felt on a level with challenging, particularly when it affects a change in commissioners and such like, I have often felt inferior This is one of the many reasons why we feel that culture. However, as staff come to better understand and belittled by such people but the conference gave involving young people in decision making processes the importance of participation in improving services; me a chance to feel equal and valued...I really felt like and awareness raising is so important. The above is an the more young people are enabled to participate. I had something important to share with them...if not example of how services benefit from enabling young The change in culture towards participation has had a even teach them” people to participate. However by doing so, the young great impact on how services work with young people people themselves have also benefited. They have and vice versa. The young people that have actively “…has made me feel good about myself. I’m glad I could gained new transferable skills, their self esteem has participated in projects, consultations and more, apart be of help to the service and to other young people improved and their voices have been heard. from gaining experience in areas that they otherwise in the same situation I was in almost a year ago. The would not, have been able to change and improve the more help people can have, the better it is for everyone By enabling young people to have a voice in what services offered to them. involved.” happens to them and their future we ensure that services are tailored to their needs that mental health Where in some instances that may not be immediately Many teams within SEPT are involving young people in and becomes something young people and adults talk visible, in others their involvement has had a direct their work. This means that as well as changing the way about in a positive rather than a negative way. impact. An example of this is young people delivering we and the public view mental health, the participation workshops at various conferences on mental health and of young people is also changing the culture within Aida Aliu, Participation Development Worker, South how it affects young people; services and making it more child and young person Essex CAMHS/Barnardos

Diabetes Open Day

SEPT’s Diabetes Primary Care Service held a ‘Hands On Diabetes’ open day recently at the Salvation Army Hall, Hadleigh, Essex. The event was opened by Gill Hind, Chair of the South East Essex Diabetes Network, and Pam Sabine, Director of SEPT’s Specialist Services.

The day offered a wide range of information for people with diabetes, their family, carers, and healthcare professionals. And for those who do not have diabetes, there was the opportunity to undertake a ‘Pre-Diabetes’ Mini Health Check.

Short Talks took place throughout the day about things such as food labelling, foot care, depression, heart disease, continence, childhood obesity and the importance of exercise.

For more information about future events, contact The Diabetes Primary Care Service on 01268 464590. The Diabetes team pictured at ‘Hands On Diabetes’ open day

SEPT Achieves Gold Level ‘Investor In People’ Accreditation

SEPT is celebrating the news it has achieved highlighted included: the national Investors in People (IiP) Gold • the wellbeing of staff is genuinely Level status, the Health and Wellbeing Practice supported by managers; Award and Staying Healthy at Work (SHaW). • resources for staff wellbeing have been The accreditations are valid for another three well thought out; years. • an appreciation of the ‘human factor’ that ‘Investors in People’ is a national quality managers are people managers; standard which sets a level of good practice • a desire for ‘wellness’ in the spirit and ethos for improving an organisation’s performance across the Trust. through its people. Dr Patrick Geoghegan OBE, SEPT Chief The Trust has been recognised as an Executive, said “This is an excellent top level accredited ‘Investors in People’ organisation achievement for the Trust and sets an even since 1996. The Trust undertook assessment higher benchmark foundation for the next earlier this year with over 140 staff across the three years of workforce development. I always Trust in Essex involved in detailed interviews. say we have some of the best people in the The Assessor spent 15 days with the Trust and NHS working at SEPT and I am delighted that selected staff to cover as many disciplines and a Gold Level IiP accreditation, Health and work areas as possible. Wellbeing Practice Award and Staying Healthy The Assessor looked at the Trust business plans at Work (SHaW) evidences the support we give and had to determine how staff contributed to them. Better support to our staff will mean to both the development and implementation better care for our patients. Congratulations to of these plans. The feedback complimented all staff on this achievement and in particular the Trust on its business planning processes the staff who contributed to the assessment SEPT Chief Executive Dr Patrick Geoghegan OBE and Trust Chair Lorraine and the leadership qualities exhibited at all process”. Cabel celebrating the Trust’s Investors In People re-accreditation. levels within the organisation. Good practice 16 The Hamstel Children and Showcasing Our Family Centre received the Silver award from Southend Borough Council in the Excellent Learning annual event of Southend in Bloom2011 for our work with the garden area, hanging baskets and containers. Disability Services Services for People who have a Learning Disability (SPLD) have Sarah St Pierre, Director of been doing some fantastic engagement work by showcasing their Children, Young People and excellent services at two open days in Bedfordshire and Luton. Families, said: “This is great news and very Elspeth Clayton, Associate Director of Learning Disabilities said: positive that a Children’s “We have some brilliant staff providing a first class service. Imagine Centre should be recognised having important needs and ideas to communicate but being in this award - another unable to express them. Perhaps feeling bombarded by sights and first for our services! sounds, unable to focus your attention. Or trying to make sense of Congratulations to all the the world around you but nobody seems to understand. Although staff, children and families different from person to person, these difficulties make up the who worked so hard on common daily experiences of many people who have a learning the planting, caring for and disability.” harvesting the flowers and vegetables from the award- The first open day was for professionals and provided an winning garden”. opportunity to meet our teams and learn about the services we offer.

Terri Dorman, Practice Development Nurse said: “The Open Day was successful, providing us with an opportunity to network with Nurse Consultant Commended at colleagues working in different services and organisations across Bedfordshire, discussing how we can support each other to provide Health Hero Awards good quality healthcare to people who have a learning disability Mary Alabaster, Nurse Consultant at South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust living in Bedfordshire and Luton. We were also pleased to meet (SEPT), has been recognised for the support she has given to women suffering from postnatal our colleagues working in Essex to share our experiences and hope depression. that this will be the start of regularly sharing our practice.” The primary care trust, NHS South West Essex, asked for nominations and Mary was nominated for The second open day was for service users and it provided a a Health Heroes Award which celebrates health workers who have gone above and beyond the chance for attendees to have fun and at the same time have a say call of duty to help others as part of their role and has been commended by the panel. about the services we provide and how we can improve. Mary’s nominator described her as a ‘compassionate, kind, wonderfully supportive person’

Ruth Cooper, Clinical Nurse Specialist said: “The Open Day was a Derek Morrison, Chairman of NHS South great success, with approximately 100 people attending. We had West Essex, says: “It’s more important than some very positive and valuable feedback about our services for ever with all the change going on in the people who have a learning disability, and a number of our service NHS that we don’t forget about the great users have expressed an interest in joining our user inclusion forum. many unsung heroes - the people who Our users and carers really enjoyed the interactive nature of the day are devoted to saving lives, improving and we have had many requests for it to become an annual event!” health and wellbeing, providing guidance and supporting people through difficult The highlight of the open day was a panel question and answer times in their lives.” discussion featuring: Scott Watkin, National Learning Disability Consultant with Mencap, Declan Jacob, Director of Mental Health SEPT Chief Executive Dr Patrick (Bedfordshire and Luton), Dr Tom Picton, Clinical Director, Learning Geoghegan OBE said “I always say the Disabilities, and Elspeth Clayton, Associate Director of Learning strength of SEPT lies in the staff who make Disabilities. it what it is and this commendation for

Scott said: “It’s really important that people with a learning disability Mary is well deserved and the clue is there have the opportunity to tell health professionals what they think for all to see in the title that she is indeed about the care they are receiving. We need to make sure services a true health hero”. are working well and that the professionals deliver the best possible care.”

Our services work in conjunction with local authorities and a wide range of voluntary and private agencies that also provide a number of residential and domiciliary care services. Staff at the open day for professionals show off their services 16 17 county and beyond and it is very time consuming. Alison and Astacia’s Story “Astacia is a really lovely little girl. She has a heart of Fundraising a piece of gold. Because of everything she’s been through she ALISON Kirby distinctly remembers her daughter’s first needs me there all the time. As she has always had me cake for Robin Pinto birthday. there, she still needs it as much, as she is so used to Following the celebrations she gave Astacia her bottle it. Astacia plays up if she thinks I’m giving her brother Team and laid her down to sleep, as per her usual routine. more attention than her. I constantly have to try to find A mother’s instinct made Alison turn back to the the happy medium, and give them the same amount of A service user initiative at the Robin Pinto Unit in bedroom to check if all was well. It was not. one-to-one attention. “ Luton has been lining the pockets of a local charity Mum of three Alison, 37, said: “I had a feeling I needed Alison believes there is very little help and support for and expanding the waist lines of service users, carers to check on her. I looked on in shock as her face was parents whose children are diagnosed with epilepsy and staff. red, she was very stiff and her eyes were staring. It was and many find themselves having to spend a lot of time so terrifying. I called an ambulance and at the hospital I searching on the Internet and making phone calls to The Robin Pinto community banded together to was initially told Astacia had suffered convulsions which gather the necessary information. organise a charity event for Happy Days – a registered I had had as a child.” “For instance I found out that due to the severity of charity for children with learning difficulties. The team However, such episodes became more frequent with Astacia’s disability I could claim some benefits which transformed the former Spiritual Care Centre at the the family having to rush to hospital up to three times have been a great help with the cost of extra bedding. Luton and Dunstable Hospital site into a café for the a week. Eventually Astacia was diagnosed as having I have just found out about a couple of local support day and sold freshly made cakes, sandwiches and severe epilepsy. groups, but I had to spend a lot of time finding all this drinks. Now 10, her seizures are better controlled by drugs, out on my own.” but they can still occur at any time, with no warning. Alison also finds schools can be ‘very naïve’ about the Service users unable to leave the ward got involved Astacia suffers from both petit mal episodes, which are condition. by combining their efforts to make the majority of absences of consciousness where she stares into space “I would describe the reaction when Astacia started the goods for sale and also by producing marketing for anything from a few seconds to a couple of minutes, school as one of ‘sheer panic’. I had to stay with her for materials as well as decorations. and grand mal which are tonic clinic seizures which can six weeks, and then after that I could be called in up see her unconscious for two minutes to half an hour. to three times a day. I have to accompany Astacia on The idea for the fundraiser came from Daniel Reardon Alison said: “I’ve nearly lost her on several occasions all school trips which cause resentment among other who said: “I wanted to support a local charity due to grand mal episodes. Her temperature rockets parents who want a turn to go along.” and Happy Days are local and they don’t get any into 100 degrees and there is a strong risk of her Alison also recounts how she has encountered naivety government funding. What started out as a small swallowing her tongue. about epilepsy among parents as well, to the extent a coffee morning really ballooned into something “Long term these seizures are less damaging to the few have warned their children not to play with Astacia much bigger.” brain as it has time to reboot itself before she comes for fear of catching the condition. round. The absences do not allow the brain to do this She said: “This type of attitude is frustrating as it leads As-well-as food and drinks being sold the team also so have a more detrimental effect in the long run. to fear among young children which in turn leads to organised a raffle. Prizes up for grabs included a “Finding the right drug dosage was total guesswork bullying, something Astacia has suffered from and as a digital camera and an iPad 2 that was donated by BT. at first. It is dependent on weight and height and as result had her self-confidence severely knocked.” children grow so quickly we had to constantly alter the Faye Clarke, Occupational Therapist and a key dose to make sure she was having enough medicine, organiser said: “It has been incredibly time consuming yet keeping side effects to a minimum.” and hard work to pull it all together but with the The amount of seizures Astacia has suffered has had an combined efforts of patients and staff it has been adverse effect on her body. She has bowel and bladder an extraordinary success; a real team effort. I have problems, is often very tired and is partially deaf in been so impressed with the focus and dedication our one ear, needing to wear a hearing aid. The youngster service users have shown. All credit to them.” is also behind in her school work as it took her a lot longer than most children to learn to read and write, The team has raised over £500 for Happy Days. which she finds frustrating as she always knows what she wants to put down but is unable to write it. Alison, who has two sons aged 21 and nine, said: “Astacia deals with the seizures amazingly well. She does not know she is going into a seizure – there is no warning. It is horrible having to live with that all the time. I feel so sorry for her because she did not choose to have this” Due to Astacia’s condition Alison has had to give up her job and be there for her daughter around the clock. “There is a lot to deal with when you have a child with Members of the Robin Pinto team behind the epilepsy because you can never predict when they are fundraising event going to have a seizure. You have to be around all the time and make people aware wherever she goes of what could happen. It is a 24/7 role. “I gave up being a head chef when she was little. It was not even a choice – it was something I just had to do. Astacia has an array of appointments with various medical professionals. Alison said: “We have regular appointments with ENT, dieticians as the drugs have made her put on weight, paediatric doctors, the urine clinic and epilepsy specialists. It’s great the doctors are keeping a close watch on Astacia but we have to travel around the 18 Astacia pictured with Dr Yemula and Professor Besag The team from the kitchen display their wares FRANK PALS CARERS Eating Disorders 0800 776600 Patient Advice and Liaison Service National Carers Associations South Essex WEB: www.talktofrank.co.uk freephone South Essex 0808 808 7777 01268 243538 Drugs and Alcohol 0800 085 7935 Basildon Carers 01268 280441 Bedfordshire & Luton Addaction freephone Bedfordshire and Luton Southend Carers 01702 393933 01582 709066 offer advice, support and information to 0800 0131 223 Thurrock Carers drug users and their families. Community Health Services, 01375 413754 Hospital Luton 01582 732200 Bedfordshire 01375 413640 Bedford Hospital Bedford 01234 352220 01525 636832 Carers in Bedfordshire 01235 355122 Dunstable 01582 501780 Bedford Hospital PALS 0300 111 1919 Luton and Dunstable Hospital 01234 795814 Carers Support 0845 127 0 127 ADVOCACY Luton and Dunstable Hospital PALS 020 8867 2380 Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals Independent 01582 497 990 Carers UK 020 7378 4999 Switchboard 01268 524900 Complaints Advocacy Service NHS Bedfordshire PALS Young Carers or 0845 155 3111 01234 897211 0300 456 2370 www.youngcarers.org.uk Southend Hospital 0845 456 1083 01702 435555 Housing Basildon Mind and Advocacy Employment The Princess Alexandra Hospital Basildon Council Housing: Homelessness 01268 524322 Employment and Training 01279 444455 Southend Advocacy Service Essex Social Services 01268 643346 Brentwood Council Housing Service 01702 538024 01702 349191 Counselling 01277 312500 Rethink 0845 4560455 Bedford 01234 340321 Southend-on-Sea Homelessness POhWER CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU Mid Beds 01767 312997 01702 215002 Rochford, Rayleigh, Brentwood 0300 456 2370 Out of hours 01702 466550 08444 770808 Luton/South Beds 01582 595300 Advocacy for Older People Housing Advice 01702 215002 Southend 08444 770808 Dunstable and Luton Counselling Centre Bedford Thurrock Council Housing Advice Service Thurrock 08444 770808 01582 732450 0300 4562362 01375 652652 Basildon 08444 770808 Domestic Violence helpline Luton Shelter 0808 800 4444 Mid Beds 08444 771 600 0871 9189188 01582 422742 Bedford Homelessness 01234 718058 Bedford 0844 245 1290 Dunstable 01582 661384 NOAH Enterprises MIND OTHER NUMBERS Leighton Buzzard 01525 373878 01582 728416 Thurrock Mind NHS Direct Luton 01582 731616 BECHAR (Bedford concern for the Saffron Walden 0844 477 5986 01375 391411 0845 4647 homeless and rootless) Basildon Mind 24 hour service Harlow 08451 203717 01234 365955 Bishops Stortford 0844 8489700 01268 284130 www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk Shelter-national helpline Epping 0844 2571909 Brentwood Mind South Essex Mental Health 0808 800 4444 Uttlesford 0844 4775986 01277 263613 Information Line Epping Fotest District Council Central office for Bedfordshire and Luton 01268 287755 01992 564027 Continence Service 01525 844160 National Mediation Helpline Uttlesford District Council Bedfordshire Service 0845 6030809 01799 510510 01582 528820/21 Drinkline Essex County Council Social Care 0800 917 8282 Brook Emergency Duty Service IMPACT Mental Health Stop Smoking 0845 606 1212 www.brook.org.uk Services Users Support West Essex Helpline: 0808 802 1234 01582 611079 01279 827866 Learning Disbility Confidential advice for under 25s. Mencap Learning Disability Helpline Luton and Dunstable Physical Disabilites 0808 808 1111 Diabetes UK Careline Patient Affairs Disability Resource Centre Email: [email protected] 0845 120 2960 01582 497 002. 01582 470900

18 19 Coming soon Do you need SEPT News in other formats? If you need this newspaper in a different format, please contact our Communications Team on

Board of Governors Meeting 01268 407742 or [email protected] 18 June 2012 Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, and we can provide the newspaper in larger print, Braille, on tape or disc. Luton, LU1 7HA 18:00

21 November 2012 Training Room 1, The Lodge, Wickford, SS11 7XX Log on to find out more... 17:00 If you would like to know more about South Essex Partnership University NHS Board of Directors Meetings in Public Foundation Trust (SEPT), please log on to our website which we have developed and designed so that you can easily find out what we do, where we are located and 28 March 2012 Stockwood Discovery Centre, who we care for. London Road, Luton, LU1 7HA Go to www.SEPT.nhs.uk and have a look for yourself! 13:00

25 April 2012 The Lodge, Wickford, SS11 7XX 10:00

31 October 2012 The Lodge, Wickford, SS11 7XX Need help out of hours? 10:00 If you, a family member or friend is experiencing an urgent mental health problem at night or at the weekend, please contact our 24 hour, seven day a week number Mystery Shopper Conference 0300 1230808 23 Mar 2012 Mitchell Hall, Cranfield University, Our contact centre will either connect you directly or advise you of the best person Cranfield, Beds MK43 0AL or organisation to contact. 09.00-17.00 Remember – in an emergency always dial 999 immediately. Members Meeting

28 Feb 2012 South Essex Members Meeting Hall 2, The Paddocks Community Centre, Long Road, Canvey Island, SS8 0JQ 13:30 - 15:00

05 Mar 2012 West Essex Members Meeting Latton Bush Hall, Southern Way, Harlow, CM18 7BL For ebook go to 14:30 - 16:00 iBooks or 07 Mar 2012 Central Bedfordshire Members Meeting www.barnesandnoble.com Dunstable Community Fire Station, Brewers Hill Road, For a paperback go to Dunstable, LU6 1AA www.schizophreniapoetry.com/shop 14.00-15.30 Lets talk about

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