Shepway Wellbeing Blog

East Kent Carers Support newsletter

2012-02-05T19:30:00.001Z

East Kent Carers Support - part of Rethink Mental Illness - have published a newsletter full of valuable information and articles.

Shepway Open Forum Christmas Blog 2011

2011-12-21T10:56:00.000Z

Christmas Greetings from SWOF. It has been a very busy year and we have enjoyed many interesting and happy times together.

We held a very successful Christmas lunch at the Clifton Hotel in Folkestone recently and a good time was had by all.

This year we have had some new active members, who are contributing their recent experiences of using Mental Health Services, which was especially helpful at the Service User Meeting for Shepway with Andy Oldfield (Associate Director for Community Recovery) and fellow Service Line Managers.

We continue to offer Peer Support and need to work more closely with the Community Mental Health Team to make sure Service User issues are dealt with more swiftly.

Have a Peaceful Christmas Time and a Healthy New Year.

Jackie and Angela

The first meeting in the New Year will be on Tuesday 10th January in the Group room at the Walk In Centre at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Folkestone at 4pm. Hope to see you there.

Christmas Quiz Night

2011-12-13T16:58:00.001Z

The COMMUNITY NETWORK are holding a fundraising

Christmas Quiz Night

on 17 December, 7-9pm, at

378 Cheriton Road
Folkestone CT19 4DX

£2.50 entrance fee

Games, Raffles, Sing-a-long and other entertainment!
Bring your own refreshments and nibbles

Call 01303 270024 or email kent.area@unitedresponse.org.uk

Folkestone Churches Winter Shelter

2011-12-13T16:33:00.000Z

The Winter shelter starts on the 5th December 2011 and runs through until 27th February 2012. It will be hosted by 6 different local churches who will each offer the same night/s per week for consistency. The shelter is open daily from 7.30pm through until 7.30am. It is not just purely a “drop in” service, it is through a referrals from local agencies, contact fcws.office@gmail.com for more information.

Folkestone Mind Open Day

2011-11-18T14:10:00.000Z

Folkestone Mind would like to invite you to our forthcoming Open Day on Thursday 1 December between 11am - 1pm. There will be refreshments, cakes, handmade Christmas craft and much, much more!. A chance to find out more about our facilities and the services we have on offer.

We hope to see you at the Centre on the 1st.

Folkestone Mind Centre
24/26 Dover Road
Folkestone CT20 1JQ

The Power of Telling my Story

2011-11-10T09:32:00.001Z

Help others learn from your experiences

Help services learn how to improve

A two day workshop for those who have a lived experience of mental health challenges. Those of us who have mental health challenges are strong, worthwhile people who have a story to tell which can encourage us, and those who hear it.

This two day practical workshop, led by trainers from Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, will cover:

Recovery in mental health
The recovery journey that we are all making
The vital role and positive impact of ‘telling our story’
The skills of story telling
Opportunities for sharing our story to help further improve services

Building on your strengths and increasing confidence the course will equip you to tell your own recovery story; helping you to see the hero that you are.

Dates: 24th & 25th Nov, 2011
Venue: Westgate Hall, Westgate Hall Road Canterbury. CT1 2BT
Time: 9.30 - 4.45 each day

Travel expenses will be reimbursed and lunch and refreshments provided. For further information, or to apply to join this training please call or email Nick on 01227 81202

Carer Support Groups

2011-10-05T22:33:00.000+01:00

Rethink Mental Illness have a Carer Support Group every 2nd Thursday of the month at the

Folkestone Mind Resource Centre
7pm - 9pm

All carers are welcome. The aim of the Support meetings is to facilitate networking of Carers in the area to encourage mutual support. Carers meet up in an informal environment and the group gives them the chance to discuss their roles and experiences within their Carer role. The Carer Groups are an effective tool in preventing isolation and promoting social inclusion.

Carer Groups provide support via publications, personal experiences and, on occasions, speakers are invited to attend to discuss a variety of areas that you may find useful within your caring role. The Carer Groups have proved to be highly effective and feedback has been very positive.

News from Shepway Open Forum

2011-10-05T22:10:00.000+01:00

We had a third successful open forum meeting with the Community Mental Health Team for Shepway and Ashford. It took place at the Salvation Army building in Folkestone on 28th September and was well attended. The focus was on 'Recovery' but unfortunately the Chair Person (Howard Roles, Recovery Service Line Manager) was unable to attend at the last minute so Angela took over the job of chair.

We would like to say thank-you to our Local Mind, Aspirations, Nick Dent (PALS Manager) and Chris Watson, for their presentations and all those who attended the meeting. Also the CMHT for working in partnership with our forum on this event. When we have the next meeting (either in Folkestone or Ashford) it would be useful if staff members could encourage more Service Users to attend.

World Mental Health Week Lunch
Members of the Forum will be meeting up at the Skuba Bar (opposite the Leas Cliff Hall) in Folkestone on Wednesday 12th October at 1pm to celebrate World Mental Health Week so if you feel like joining us give us a call on 01303 850856.

Shepway Community Exchange

2011-09-15T08:35:00.003+01:00

Would you like to feel more involved in the Voluntary & Community Sector in Shepway?

Would you like an opportunity for networking, sharing information and working with other VCS organisations?

Would you like to develop an effective working relationship with the Statutory sector?

The Shepway Community Exchange is funded by East Folkestone Together and is being co-ordinated by CASEKent. The initial year’s funding will be used to develop a membership database and host four meetings, which are open to all organizations/ groups, either statutory or voluntary, that provide services in Shepway (with the focus being on the East Folkestone area) It is hoped the Exchange will develop into an established network which could

reduce isolation and weak communication
allow VCS to share good practice and knowledge
reduce duplication of work
give an opportunity for the wider VCS to identify what the sector does
act as a collective voice in order to interact with the statutory sector
encourage networking and development of effective working relationships

The meetings will feature guest speakers on a range of topics (chosen by the members of the Exchange) smaller group discussions and an open networking session. All organisations are encouraged to bring along any information about their work to share with others.

If you are interested in attending the next Shepway Community Exchange meeting from 10am -1pm on Wednesday 12th October at the Salvation Army Hall, Canterbury Rd, Folkestone, please contact Michael James at CaseKent via email or call 01233 610171

Shepway Open Forum for Mental Health - blog update 10/8/11

2011-08-12T19:40:00.000+01:00

Shepway Open Forum held a successful trip to Broadstairs Folk Festival last Saturday. It is thanks to Folkestone Salvation Army for the hire of their minibus and our volunteer driver that we were able to have a good day out. This is a good example of local groups working well together. Our 12 members had an enjoyable and independent day knowing that they had a map and a mobile phone number which they could contact us on if needed. Even though some of them did not like Folk Music they still enjoyed the rest of what Broadstairs had to offer. As it was so successful we are planning another event soon.

Draft LPMG minutes published

2011-08-12T19:38:00.001+01:00

Draft minutes of the July 2011 Shepway LPMG meeting have been published.

Shepway Open Forum for Mental Health - blog update

2011-08-01T17:06:00.000+01:00

"On the 27th July Shepway Open Forum (SWOF) and Folkestone Rethink Carers Group held a joint meeting with Howard Rowles, the Recovery Service Line Manager for Shepway and Ashford.

Howard gave a presentation updating us on changes and proposed changes for both the Recovery and Access Teams and discharge back to Primary Care.

The question and answer session was lively, challenging and informative. The meeting was very well attended and everyone had a chance to ask questions, even if the answers sometimes did not relate to peoples' current experience of services.

We would like to thank Howard for attending and will be taking up his offer to meet again in six months time."

Summer message from the Shepway Open Forum

2011-06-22T13:20:00.000+01:00

We have made the most of the good weather, enjoying lunches with our members at outside venues. Good company, good food and sunny weather can certainly lift your mood.

We have held a successful evening meeting in partnership with our local Carers Group. The guest speaker was Ian Maidment, a Pharmacist from Kent and Medway Partnership Trust. He was, as always a great success, answering questions about peoples concerns with side effects and long term use of medications. Thank you Ian.

In September we are jointly hosting a third meeting with our local CMHT. Hopefully we will be able to engage with current clients and offer support to those being discharged back to their GP’s.

LOOK OUT FOR THE DATE in our late Summer Blog.

Shepway Open Forum is YOUR Mental Health Forum for Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh. You can contact us on 01303 850856.

Jackie and Angela

Peer Support - the way forward

2011-05-26T16:33:00.002+01:00

KMPT are holding an event aimed at both service users and staff considering how peer support is transforming mental health services in the UK, and how it can be put into action across Kent and Medway.

Thursday 7th July 10.00am - 4.00pm at

Lenham Community Centre, Groom Way,
Lenham, Near Maidstone ME17 2QT

For further information and an application form, see this flyer.

Exhibition of Unusual Art

2011-05-19T15:39:00.000+01:00

The exhibition runs from 21-26 May (except Sunday 22 May) from 10am to 4pm at

The Community Network
378 Cheriton Road
Folkestone CT19 4DX

See this colourful poster.

We Want Your Art!

2011-05-06T13:34:00.001+01:00

United Response and the Cheriton Community Network are organising an exhibition at

The Community Network
378 Cheriton Road
Folkestone CT19 4DX

If you are an artist making something unusual, they want to show it!

For more details see this flyer, call 01303 270024 or email

Changes to your Wellbeing Blog settings

2011-04-14T15:16:00.001+01:00

Some improvements have been made to your local wellbeing blog.

Firstly, anyone can now comment on any of the posts. You do not have to be a registered user. So if you have something to say about anything you read here, let the rest of us know!

Secondly, there are now two new ways to stay up-to-date with your local wellbeing blog, using two new options on the right hand menus, "Subscribe to" and "Follow by Email".

"Subscribe to" allows you to pick up a news feed with, amongst others Google Reader, My Yahoo and Atom RSS.

If that sounds complicated, the really easy option is "Follow by Email". Enter your email address, follow the simple verification instructions, and henceforth you'll get an email every time there is a new post!

Rethink East Kent Advocacy Service

2011-03-23T18:36:00.001Z

A reminder that the Rethink East Kent Advocacy Service will be running a drop in for anyone wishing to access the advocacy service on the following dates and times in March and April:

Herne Bay Umbrella Centre - 31 March 2 - 4pm, and 28 April 2 - 4pm
Canterbury Umbrella Centre - 24 March 1 - 3pm, and 21 April 1 - 3pm
Whitstable Umbrella Centre - 5 April 12 - 2pm
Faversham Umbrella Centre - 14 April 12 - 2pm

For more information about Rethink and the services provided click here.

Changes in the NHS - What will it mean for YOU and your doctor?

2011-03-09T19:29:00.001Z

This Kent LINk Community Engagement Event is your chance to find out what is happening to your health and social care services.

The formal meeting will start at 10.45am although refreshments will be available from 10.00am to give people an opportunity to socialise and network. See full information and book your free place here.

Wednesday, 23 March 2011, 10am - 3pm

The Camden Centre,
Royal Victoria Place
Market Square
Tunbridge Wells
TN1 2SW

Art Uniting People - Spring Exhibition

2011-03-08T20:02:00.001Z

Art Uniting People is a non-profit organisation who have run two successful annual exhibitions in 2009 and 2010 to promote the talents of artists around Kent, including professionals, amateurs and those with mental health and physical disabilities. This year, for the first time, there is also a Spring Exhibition at

County Hall
Maidstone
ME14 1XQ

from 14th -28th March, 10:30am-4:30pm, Monday to Friday.

Entry is FREE

Learning from Experience 2 - How are we doing?

2011-02-25T16:17:00.001Z

This event is for service users and carers and is a follow up to the actions that the Kent & Medway Partnership Trust have put into place since the National Patient Survey of last year.

Tuesday 15 March, 10:30am - 3:30pm

Upstairs lounge, The Salvation Army
74-80 Union Street
Maidstone ME14 1ED

Lunch is provided. Registration is required, so for more information see the flyer here or call Maria Duran on 01227 812034.

Personal Development Fund - up to £500 for service users & carers!

2011-02-18T11:08:00.001Z

A reminder about the Personal Development Fund, which is intended to promote the personal development of individuals living right across Kent whose lives have been directly or indirectly affected by severe or persistent mental ill health.

The fund has been able to pay for things like conferences and training courses, travel and accommodation for such events, art materials, Reiki training, laptops, printers and so on.

A panel of service users, carers and voluntary organisations meet every three months to decide on awards. For more information, see this flyer. To apply, download an application form in either Word or PDF format.

The scheme is funded by Kent County Council and administered by Sevenoaks Area Mind.

Your feedback on community mental health in Kent and Medway

2011-02-16T12:49:00.001Z

Medway PCT, who lead the development of mental health services across Kent and Medway, are asking for your help in looking at how these services can be improved. They would like to ask service users and carers six simple questions about the services they are using - including what works, what doesn't work, and what are the key factors that make a good service.

This is a great opportunity to have your voice heard!

The survey can be completed very simply online here, or alternatively you can download the survey in Word or PDF format to complete and return by post or email.

Please make sure your voice is heard by Friday 18 March!

No Health without Mental Health

2011-02-05T00:07:00.003Z

The government have published "No health without mental health - A cross-government mental health outcomes strategy for people of all ages." A news item on the Live It Well website gives details of where you can read this, and a sample of responses from relevant organisations.

Fit for Work Service

2011-01-26T22:21:00.002Z

Fit for Work is a free service running across East Kent. The aim is to help individuals, who are employed but currently off work sick, to return to work. A team of occupational therapists, employment
specialists, psychologists and physiotherapists is available depending on the employees support needs.

More information in this flyer, or on the Eastern and Coastal Kent NHS website.

Working with Transgender people to improve health and wellbeing - followup

2010-12-29T10:59:00.002Z

On Monday 13th December a workshop evening was held by representatives of both the Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust and the Eastern and Coastal Kent Community Health NHS Trust. Among the attendees were NHS professionals, members of the Transgender community, representatives from GIRES (the Gender Identity Research and Education Society) and other interested private bodies. The workshop aimed to find out how to provide more and better access to support and information for Transgender people.

Many topics were discussed, and several priority areas emerged for future work. The need to provide more education regarding Transgender issues in training NHS staff was highlighted, alongside the importance of working with General Practitioners to encourage willingness to provide medical care for, and a more ethical treatment of, Transgender people. The workshop established links with individuals and organisations eager to participate and take the agenda forward.

All feedback from both the participants and facilitators was very positive and when asked for their thoughts of the evening, one participant remarked “I am so happy to see that there are people within the NHS committed to improving the experience Transgendered people encounter”.

A working group will be formed and another meeting will be held in January 2011.

For more information, please contact either Sheree Bell, Community Engagement Officer for the Kent and Medway NHS & Social Care Partnership Trust, or Adam Lott, Equality and Diversity Manager for Eastern and Coastal Kent Community Health NHS Trust.

East Kent User Forum campaign against proposed cuts to benefits

2010-12-29T09:57:00.001Z

The EKUF have launched a vigorous campaign to voice the concern and stress felt by those on mental health related benefits who feel threatened by the cuts proposed in the recent Comprehensive Spending Review.

Read more about the campaign here, and take part in an anonymous survey here.

Mental Health Commissioning and Contracting Team - Christmas 2010 newsletter

2010-12-13T22:40:00.002Z

Kent County Council's Mental Health Commissioning and Contracting Team have published their latest newsletter. Amongst the many interesting items is a brief article introducing myself, Brian Pugsley, as the new Live It Well webmaster, and a report on the opening of the Live It Well centre in Ashford.

KMPT Community Engagement Workshops

2010-12-13T19:28:00.001Z

The Kent and Medway Partnership Trust are holding a series of workshops as part of their search for an improved approach to accessing expertise within the community and the development of a Community Engagement Strategy. Local people, particularly those that use KMPT services, will be vital to the success of this strategy. Anyone interested in becoming involved is invited to attend one of the workshops.

The workshop in Canterbury is on Thursday 16 December, 10am-2pm (lunch provided), at

Main Hall
St Martin's Hospital
Littlebourne Road
Canterbury
CT1 1AZ

Further information can be seen on the KMPT website, where you can also download a workshop booking form.

A Woman's View - exploring mental health experience through an artists eye

2010-12-13T15:13:00.001Z

This free one day event will take place at

Tonbridge Baptist Church
Darenth Avenue
Tonbridge
TN10 3HZ

on Monday 10 January 2011, 10am-3pm (lunch provided)

A day for women to discuss, share and learn from each others experiences, giving women a voice and influencing support services. Using art work especially produced for this event to stimulate discussion, the workshop will focus on the theme of "The 3 phases of womanhood" (18-35, 35-60, 60+).

The event is promoted by the Kent and Medway Partnership Trust. To find out more, see this flyer or call Sheree Bell, Community Engagement Officer at KMPT on 07949 037401. To register and obtain a booking form please email or call the Equalities Team on 01732 523347.

East Kent User Forum Christmas Newsletter published

2010-11-30T19:15:00.001Z

The East Kent User Forum Christmas Newsletter has been published can can be accessed or downloaded here. This is a great media-rich document with lots of photos, images and articles, consequently it's quite large (4.4mb) so it might take a while to appear.

Live It Well summary published

2010-11-22T13:20:00.002Z

A summary of the final version of the Live It Well strategy for improving the mental health and mental wellbeing of people in Kent and Medway has been published, and you can read or download it here.

How health walks transform lives

2010-11-22T07:40:00.001Z

An article in The Guardian discusses the benefits of "health walks." Groups were established by professionals and are now self-supporting. Walkers are convinced that, in addition to the obvious physical benefits, their morale and mental health is lifted.

Reading for Wellbeing groups in Folkestone

2010-11-18T14:59:00.001Z

The Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts & Health, The Hearth Centre and Canterbury Christ Church University are setting up a project in Folkestone to look at the impact on health & wellbeing of reading aloud in groups.

The Hearth Centre has completed nine months of this project and the evaluations by staff and patients have been overwhelmingly positive.

The Reading for Wellbeing groups are facilitator-led, and generally use well written fiction and poetry. The facilitator reads aloud from novels, stories and poems, while participants follow from photocopies or books or just listen if they prefer. There is a pause every so often for discussion and reflection, encouraging participants to respond to the text and to how it connects with their experience. Participants can share in the reading aloud, but only if they wish to. Occasionally a creative writing exercise may be offered in response to a text. Groups usually last about an hour to 90 mins.

We aim to recruit and train reading group facilitators who would be interested, and in a position to organise reading group activity in voluntary sector and health organisations in and around Folkestone. We aim to recruit up to 20 participants for training in the Reading for Wellbeing method. The training will be delivered through 5 three hour sessions, when participants will be given opportunities to practice facilitation and share texts which have worked well. Through this process they will gain the skills needed to run groups independently. Email mentoring services will be on offer, following the completion of The Hearth Centre's local input. Our overall aim is to set up and maintain some flourishing Reading for Wellbeing groups in Folkestone. We are particularly interested in developing the method for older participants and those with mental health problems.

The first workshop session is on Friday, 10 December, 1-4pm at UCF.

Further information from this flyer, download an application form, or contact Kristin Wade on: 01227 782845.

East Kent User Forum Autumn Newsletter published

2010-11-05T15:35:00.001Z

The East Kent User Forum Autumn Newsletter has been published can can be accessed or downloaded here. This is a great media-rich document with lots of photos, images and articles, consequently it's quite a large (8mb) so it might take a while to appear.

Regulator says it will drive improvements for mental health patients

2010-11-05T15:02:00.002Z

The Care Quality Commission today (27 October) highlighted areas of poor practice in mental health services for patients who are subject to the Mental Health Act, and pledged to use its regulatory powers to lever improvement.

Publishing its first annual report on the use of the Act, CQC said its findings raised important concerns about how some care providers, in both the NHS and private sector, were adhering to the principles of the Act and its Code of Practice.

The commission identified three priority areas where services needed to do much better:

involving patients in decisions about their care and treatment;
assessing and recording patients’ consent to treatment;
minimising restrictions on patients and avoiding ‘blanket’ security measures.

Read the full press release or download the full report.

Call for research volunteers - aged over 65

2010-11-05T14:23:00.001Z

Are you over 65? Would you be prepared to be interviewed for an important study of older people’s health and wellbeing?

The East Kent User Forum is helping the Royal College of Psychiatrists to develop a standardised interview, which could be used by mental health practitioners and researchers to more effectively assess mental health disorders in the elderly. The interview will be used in a major European survey of people aged between 65 and 84 in six countries, including the UK. Before starting the main survey, the interview we’ve developed needs to be tried out with a small number of people to see how well it works, find out if there are any problems with it, and get feedback about how it can be improved.

The interview will last a couple of hours and would take place in your own home at a time convenient to you. If you are interested in being interviewed, please contact Maggie Gallant on 01843 230726 who will be able to tell you more about it. Thank you.

Working with Transgender people to improve health and wellbeing

2010-11-04T12:39:00.001Z

You are warmly invited to an evening of discussion and social networking in a confidential and respectful space. The aim of this event is to engage transgender people further in helping to improve key areas such as access to support and information, getting help with substance misuse concerns and enabling staff to deliver better services through improved awareness and training.

Refreshments and a buffet meal will be provided on arrival.

Please come along and get involved – your views matter!

Monday 13th December 2010 5.45pm – 8.30pm at

Music for Change
Chaucer Technology School
Spring Lane
Canterbury, CT1 1SU.
www.musicforchange.org

To register: contact Deana Cook
To discuss: please call Sheree Bell 07949 037 347

See the flyer here.

Singing for Wellbeing

2010-11-02T09:49:00.002Z

The main focus of the Sidney De Haan Research Centre is researching the potential value of active participation in group singing for wellbeing and health. In September 2009 they established the East Kent Singing for Health project, which culminated in a public performance at the Granville Theatre in Ramsgate in June 2010, clips of which are shown in this wonderfully informative and inspiring short film about the project.

The Centre has undertaken an evaluation of the project during the first year and shown substantial positive benefits for mental wellbeing among participants. The project re-started in October 2010 for a second year and further performances are planned. Learn more about this exciting project from the website or via email.

East Kent User Forum open meetings

2010-10-29T15:20:00.002+01:00

The East Kent User Forum (EKUF) are having a series of three open meetings. Come along and find out how you can become more involved in your area and have a say in how local services are planned. Meet the staff, volunteers and user reps over a mince pie and hot chocolate. We look forward to seeing you.

Ashford meeting on Thursday December 2nd at 11.00am

Braethorpe
Canterbury Road
Ashford

Deal meeting on Friday December 3rd at 11.00am

Deal Resource House
London Road
Deal

Dover meeting on Wednesday December 8th at 11.00am

Ashentree House
Ashentree Lane
Dover

For more information – ring Maggie or Amanda on 01843 230 726

Ways to Wellbeing Workplace Workshops

2010-10-29T13:51:00.000+01:00

The NHS is funding free Ways to Wellbeing Workplace Workshops as part of the Live It Well Strategy.

Organisations are invited to arrange for workshops covering issues such as stress, anxiety, low mood and the sorts of work-related and financial worries that are becoming everyday realities as more people face coping with the impact of the economic downturn.

The free Ways to Wellbeing workshops are run by professionals from KCA’s Psychological Therapy team and employment specialists mcch. They aim to help people survive uncertain times by introducing them to strategies designed to build up their resilience and help them thrive. The workshops are run by professionals from KCA and mcch.

To arrange a workshop for your organisation or find out more, call Don MacLeod, KCA’s Programme Co-ordinator on 01634 406087.

Race & Ethnicity in Mental Health Action Group

2010-10-29T12:47:00.001+01:00

The East Kent Race & Ethnicity in Mental Health Action Group (REMAG) will be holding their initial meeting on Friday 12th November at the Spring Lane Neighbourhood Centre in Canterbury between 10am and 12pm; lunch will be provided afterwards.

"We envisage that service providers, mental health and social care commissioners (from statutory and voluntary groups) alongside members of the community, will engage with this action group in order to encourage equity in access and experience of services for black and minority ethnic (BME) groups in East Kent. This opportunity is the first of its kind in East Kent and it has the potential to be a beacon of good practice across the region."

Further information in this flyer and in this report. If you would like to attend or have any other queries please contact Bernadette Avis on 01622 230718.

If you were in charge, where would you spend the money?

2010-10-29T00:05:00.002+01:00

After the recent spending review all Kent Adult Social Services are expecting cuts, meaning some difficult decisions. Service users and others can make their views known at this free event on Thursday November 11th, 10:30-2:45, with lunch.

Ashford Enterprise Centre
Towers School, Faversham Road,
Kennington, Ashford
TN24 9AL

A Kent LINk Community Engagement Event

October KENT LINk Bulletin

2010-10-28T23:07:00.001+01:00

This months bulletin has two articles of particular interest. "Transforming Mental Health Services for Children in Need" introduces Wintrop Hall in Staplehurst, near Maidstone, which is being transformed into Kent's first dedicated specialist children's mental health centre.

"What is Big White Wall?" introduces the revolutionary mental wellbeing social network Big White Wall. A number of places are available to Kent residents on this site, funded by the Kent and Medway NHS Social Care and Partnership Trust.

Read the bulletin online here.

Live It Well final strategy published

2010-10-14T13:12:00.000+01:00

October 10th, World Mental Health Day, saw the publication of the final Live It Well strategy for improving the mental health and wellbeing of people in Kent and Medway. The draft strategy was circulated earlier this year, and changes were made as a result of feedback received.

Read the final Live It Well strategy

Read about the consultation exercise

World Mental Health Day walk

2010-10-05T13:10:00.000+01:00

The World Mental Health Day walk takes place next week, Wednesday October 13th. Meet at 10.45am for 11am start at Folkestone library. The walk is an easy pace and lasts approximately 1 hour.

GP commissioning

2010-09-30T09:38:00.000+01:00

Health Secretary Andrew Lansley has written to GPs to clarify the implications for GP commissioning in the July white paper on health.

What do we in Kent think about the planned changes to the NHS?

2010-09-21T13:50:00.005+01:00

In their recent white paper, Liberating the NHS, the Government have set out their plans for improving the NHS. They are interested to hear from members of the public about how these plans should be carried out.

The Kent LINk (Local Involvement Network) has produced this summary of the biggest changes and would like to hear what you think about them. You can give your views by answering the questions in this online survey.

The Kent LINk will then put all the views together and give a combined response to the Department of Health on behalf of the people of Kent.

Or, if you prefer, you can go to the Department of Health website to see the full white paper and give your feedback directly. The deadline for giving your feedback to Kent LINk is Wednesday 22nd September.

The Care Quality Commission publishes the views of 17,000 community mental health service users

2010-09-21T13:16:00.001+01:00

This substantial survey has recently been published, and a short extract from the press release is shown below. Read the full report here, or the entire press release here.

Some people who use community mental health services in England are still not getting the care and support that fully meets their needs, according to a survey published by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) today (Tuesday 14 September).

The CQC survey captures the views of more than 17,000 people aged 16 and over who had contact with specialist community mental health services between July and September last year. They had been referred to a psychiatric outpatient clinic, local community mental health team or other community-based service. The survey covered 66 NHS trusts.

People were generally very positive about the health and social care workers they had seen most recently for their mental health condition. The vast majority said workers listened carefully to them, gave them enough time for discussion and took their views into account. Also, most people said they were treated with respect and dignity and had trust and confidence in their health or social care worker.

But many reported that they had not been involved as much as they would have liked in some aspects of their care. Significant numbers of people said they would have liked more explanation of, or more say in, their treatment and support, such as their medication or care planning. Nearly half of those surveyed did not know who to contact in a crisis outside normal office hours. Of those who said they wanted some form of talking therapy, 73% had received it but 27% had not.

CIH Level 3 in Supporting Homeless Persons Certificate

2010-08-26T15:15:00.001+01:00

Dear Colleague

You may be interested to know that Porchlight is running another “Engage to Change” course, starting in October 2010.

Porchlight was the first centre in the country to be accredited to deliver this course, which leads to the “CIH Level 3 in Supporting Homeless Persons Certificate”. It has been developed by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), Homeless Link and Broadway as part of the government’s “No-one left out: communities ending rough sleeping” strategy. This new level 3 qualification has been developed specifically for people working directly with homeless people. It covers the mainstays of key working and aims to support workers in developing their approach to gaining successful outcomes for their clients. It is aimed at staff who are experienced in this sector, and is therefore not an induction programme.

We are offering places on the course to external agencies at a cost of £495.00 per student, which includes all course materials, support, CIH registration and student membership.

Course dates are 12th and 13th October 2010, 17th November 2010, 19th January 2011 and 23rd March 2011 and it is essential that students are able to attend on all five dates. The course will be run at our offices in the centre of Canterbury.

For further information about the course content, individual modules, support that students can expect and what we expect from the students, please follow the following link:

http://porchlight.org.uk/about/training/engage-to-change/

As we are expecting more interest than available places, acceptance on the course is by application. An application form is available from the above link.

Applications must be returned to us by Monday 13th September 2010. If successful at this stage, we will invite candidates to come into our Head Office on Monday 20th September 2010 to discuss their application and complete a literacy and time impact assessment.

If you still have any queries about the course, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Beverley Callaghan
Interim Head of HR

Porchlight
2nd Floor Watling Chambers
18-19 Watling Street
Canterbury
Kent CT1 2UA
Direct Line: 01227 813195
Reception: 01227 760078
Fax. 01227 453331

Research Volunteers Wanted

2010-08-26T15:10:00.001+01:00

Hull University - Research Volunteers
Would you like to help to improve our understanding of mental health?
Have you a few minutes to spare?

An NHS mental health professional is seeking volunteers to complete some online questionnaires. It doesn’t matter whether or not you have experienced problems with your mental health – everybody can make an important contribution and anyone aged 18 or over can take part.
Payment is not offered but you will be entered into a free £250 prize draw.

To request more information, please email
volunteer4research@googlemail.com

A new play about the mental health sysytem

2010-08-09T11:18:00.001+01:00

'Blue/Orange', Arcola Theatre, London

Tiata Fahodzi is a professional theatre company presenting drama representing the experiences of Africans in Britain. An experience which is statistically more likely to afflict Britain’s Africans, in line with other Black groups, is spending time in the mental health care system; a topic explored in Joe Penhall’s award-winning play ‘Blue/Orange’.

From Wednesday 27 October – Saturday 20 November 2010 a radically new, all-female, tenth anniversary production of the play will be staged at the Arcola Theatre in Dalston, East London.

‘Blue/Orange’ is a passionate, witty and ultimately devastating exploration of institutional politics, mental health and race. Unfolding like a game of human chess the drama centres on a patient alternately bewildering and beguiling her medical consultants. Her stories of a damaged childhood in thrall to Idi Amin and a precarious urban London upbringing are plausible but are they true?

Is it more dangerous to keep her inside than to set her free?

Tickets are available from the theatre on 020 7503 1646 or by visiting their website.

Tickets start from £10 and the theatre also operates a Pay What You Can scheme on Tuesdays. Please visit the website for more information.

East Kent User Forum - New Website

2010-08-04T16:02:00.000+01:00

Have a look at the East Kent User Forum website!

www.eastkentuserforum.org

Here you will find a wealth of information about East Kent User Forums, the different groups and activities that we offer as well as the many ways in which you can become involved and join our organisation.

Our primary aim is to give a voice to Mental Health Service Users in our region. We aim to help them become involved in shaping the quality and breadth of services offered in East Kent and on a personal level to aid their recovery

Here you will find a wealth of information about East Kent User Forums, the different groups and activities that we offer as well as the many ways in which you can become involved and join our organisation.

Our primary aim is to give a voice to Mental Health Service Users in our region. We aim to help them become involved in shaping the quality and breadth of services offered in East Kent and on a personal level to aid their recovery

Aspirations Summer Newsletter

2010-08-04T13:16:00.000+01:00

Hi all,

Click HERE to read a copy of Aspirations Summer Newsletter!

Mental Health Related Programmes

2010-08-04T12:40:00.001+01:00

Hi all,

Take a look at this website:

http://www.swuf.org.uk/7.html

It has details of mental health related radio and TV programmes!

What is Shepway Open Forum?

2010-08-04T12:14:00.000+01:00

What is Shepway Open Forum?

SWOF is the name of the Shepway Mental Health Service Users Forum; it is called Shepway Open Forum or SWOF for short. SWOF was set up in April 1995 by a head Occupational Therapist and a group of local users of the then Day Service. SWOF has been involved in representing Service Users views at various meetings with Health and Social Services representatives for a good number of years now with varying degrees of success.

It was SWOF members who helped to set up Folkestone Clubhouse (now renamed Aspirations), by meeting in a local café once a week with a representative from Gravesend Clubhouse to consider and visit suitable buildings in Folkestone. Although it has changed over the years we all know what a success Aspirations now is.

S.W.O.F. meets 4 times a month, twice at the Walk-in-Centre (in the Activity Room), once at the MIND Centre and a more Social Forum at a local café/bar at lunch time one Wednesday in the month.

We offer peer support to anyone with a Mental Health Issue in a non-judgemental and confidential setting,
We act as a Signpost to other services and we are committed to helping people to reach their own individual level of recovery and to maintain their wellbeing.
Supporting members to be aware of their rights and avoiding discrimination and stigma has always been a group priority.

It is an open forum where everyone’s views matter and our primary aim is to collect Service Users views, both good and bad and take them forward in meetings with Health, Social Services and the Voluntary Sector, on occasions we do manage to report back a successful outcome.

We are members of the Council of East Kent Service User Forums, the Shepway Locality Planning and Monitoring Group and occasionally attend the Joint Commissioning Board for Mental Health.

We have leaflets if anyone would like one and would encourage all professionals to tell their clients about our service.
We are a voluntary group and need to encourage more members.
We have a good relationship with other Shepway Voluntary Organisations and have been working on a higher profile with GPs and have had the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies workers at our forum.

Things are changing in Mental Health Care and as a Forum we are prepared to change too, especially around the new Care Programme Approach and Primary Care; we need to reflect this to continue to be effective in supporting our members on their individual journey of recovery.

If you feel you would like to be involved in any of the above please contact Jackie or Angela at The Channel Business Centre, Ingles Manor, Castle Hill Avenue, Folkestone 01303 850856 or 07902804733 we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Carers Reference Group

2010-08-03T11:59:00.001+01:00

Dear All

We would like to invite all Carers to attend the next meeting of the Carers Reference Group when the topic will be "Carers having a life of their own alongside their caring role". The details are as follows:

Date: 18 August 2010

Time: 12.30 - 3pm

Venue: Billiard Room, Oakwood House, Maidstone

Regards

Barbara

Barbara Seaman
Kent Carers
Admin Officer
Policy & Service Standards
Tel: 01622 221460

New Mental Health Website!

2010-08-03T11:14:00.001+01:00

Canterbury and District Mental Health Forum announces the launch of a new website:
We are now on the world wide web at

http://www.canterburymentalhealth.org.uk/

On there web surfers can find advice & sources of help for when in difficulties; information about local activities and campaigns; and our most recent newsletters.
We also include a list of other local and national websites for information and support on mental health issues.

Have a look!

East Kent User Forum - Time to Change Event

2010-08-03T11:00:00.001+01:00

Time to Get Moving Campaign Walk’
Part of the Time to change campaign

It's time to ... get moving!
Time to Get Moving is the part of our programme which brings people together to get active, get informed about mental wellbeing and challenge public attitudes. Time to Get Moving Week will run from 9 to 17 October, with lots of fun activities across England.

We at the Thanet User Forum will be running our event with the support of Thanet College

On Tuesday October 12th – meet at Margate Clock Tower at 1.00 pm

Walk will be from Margate to Westgate and back approx – 2 hours
Free time to Change tee shirts for all participants

Everyone Welcome

For more information please call – Maggie or Amanda on 01843 230726

Don't miss Radio 4's Discussion of Mental Health Budgets....

2010-06-28T11:20:00.001+01:00

Hi all,

Don't miss Radio 4's discussion about mental health budgets tomorrow at 9pm (Tuesday 29th June) - plus the programme joins in with a Walk and Talk in Shrewsbury.

Take a look here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00sv5bk

A message from Folkestone and District Mind

2010-04-29T11:39:00.000+01:00

Hi to everyone.

My name is Sharon Bates and I am the community activities coordinator at Folkestone Mind Resource Centre.

As always we have an exciting variety of great activities occurring in the community as well as on centre. April/ Mays programme of community events includes horse riding, walking and regular visits to the gym. We will also be visiting the lovely seaside town of Broadstairs and enjoying a fantastic vintage train journey through carpets of bluebells at Bredgar and Wormshill railway.

To cut a long story short we are always planning exciting things to do and since there is no greater feeling than the sense of achievement we gain when contributing to something worthwhile we are looking forward to getting out our spades again in 2010 for conservation work! Last year we were out there with the team in January but we were not so brave this winter!

There are so many things to get involved in at our centre too from music to woodwork to art and sewing. We really do pride ourselves on offering a wide range of different activities and experiences that will appeal to different people.

All these things are geared to make us feel fitter, healthier, more fulfilled, more confident and happier. We would all like to improve our quality of life and you don’t need to be a member to benefit from our organisation. Everyone is welcome to come and join us at our centre for a free course of coping with life skills. These six week classes start on Tuesday 4th May 2010 10.30am- 12.30pm and anyone can come providing they have enrolled.

Our centre is a great place for meeting friendly people and trying new things out. Many of our members will testify that there is never a dull moment here and our aim is ensure that every month is packed with an array of wonderful things to look forward to!

Folkestone and District Mind provide services which aim to improve the quality of life of people with mental health issues. Our service is available to any Shepway resident who is experiencing or has in the past experienced mental health problems. You can apply for membership by self referral or via your GP, Community Mental Health Team or Social Services. If you would like to talk to us about membership or the free life skills course in May here are our details. Look forward to telling you what we have been getting up to in May!

Tel.01303 250090.
Postal address: Folkestone and District Mind, 3 Mill Bay, Folkestone, Kent CT20 1JS. Email: contact@folkestonemind.org.uk

Sharon Bates
Community Activities Co-ordinator

Raising Voices, Raising Spirits!

2010-01-26T10:27:00.001Z

Click HERE to see a fantastic report by BBC Kent on the Mustard Seed Choir! Complete with interviews with members of the choir! They sound fantastic!

Article on Live It Well!

2010-01-21T14:27:00.001Z

Check out this article on the new Live It Well site!

http://www.kentnews.co.uk/kent-news/New-website-will-help-to-boost-mental-well__being-newsinkent32030.aspx?news=local

Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults

2010-01-18T12:26:00.001Z

Free Training on Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults.... Click HERE for more information.

Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults

2010-01-18T12:24:00.000Z

Free Training on Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults.... Click HERE for more information.

Kent and Medway Funding Fair

2010-01-18T12:06:00.001Z

Click HERE for more information relating to the Kent and Medway Funding Fair - booking is open now!

Interviewers Wanted!

2010-01-18T11:29:00.001Z

Do you know any mental health service users who would make a good interviewer for a trust project to look at our systems for service user involvement.

If so please encourage them to apply to this exciting opportunity. Deadline for applications is 21st Jan so please encourage people to act soon.

Click HERE for more information.

Thanks for your help.

Kind regards, nick

Nick Dent

PALS Manager (East)

Kent & Medway Partnership Trust

Love Shouldn't Hurt Conference

2010-01-18T11:25:00.001Z

Canterbury District Domestic Violence Forum
invite you to Love Shouldn't Hurt 2.
A one day conference on domestic abuse and its
effect on children and young people.
St Mary Bredin Church, 59 Nunnery Fields, Canterbury
26 February 9am to 4pm

Click HERE for the invite, HERE for the agenda and HERE for a booking form. RSVP by 26th Jan 2010.

Pilot Police Custody Suite Diversion Scheme - An Update from Vanessa Fowler, Head of Specialist Commissioning, Secure Services

2010-01-04T15:35:00.001Z

Hi All,

Vanessa Fowler, Head of Specialist Commissioning for Secure Services, has forwarded an update of the Pilot Police Custody Suite Diversion Scheme to be posted to the blogs. If you have any questions regarding the scheme you can email the Medway Mental Health Commissioning Team via Claire Martin whose email is claire.martin@medwaypct.nhs.uk

“A pilot Police Custody Suite Diversion Scheme began in the 6 police custody suites in Eastern and Coastal Kent PCT and the one Police Custody Suite in Medway PCT in October 2009. These services replicate that in West Kent PCT. The results and evaluation of this pilot service will be used to advise the future service model across Eastern and Coastal Kent and Medway.

Members of the Kent and Medway population detained in prison who meet requirements for transfer under the Mental Health Act 2007 are transferred from prison to hospital in a timely manner and never experience unnecessary delay over 28 days. We have indeed negotiated a bespoke 6 week transfer programme with a low secure hospital provider, dedicated to working with transferred prisoners. The health economy is committed to this group of often acutely ill people getting rapid access to the right treatment in the right place at the right time.”

Community Development Worker Newsletter

2009-12-07T13:11:00.001Z

Click HERE to see the Rethink Community Development Worker Newsletter

Signpost Kent News

2009-12-07T12:52:00.001Z

For those of you who have not yet seen a copy, click HERE to see the first edition of Signpost Kent News!

Signpost Kent News

2009-12-07T12:43:00.000Z

For those of you who have not yet seen a copy, click HERE to see the first edition of Signpost Kent News!

Live It Well Launch Drop In

2009-11-22T21:45:00.001Z

Hi,

The www.liveitwell.org.uk site will launch with an open day on the 8th of December at Canterbury Umbrella, St Peters Place, Canterbury, CT1 2DB

We will be there from 10.00am to 4.30pm and will be happy to answer any computer related queries. We could help you get more out of email, set up your own blog or website or learn how to use social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter.

The press will be there and there will be sandwiches provided!

We look forward to seeing you there!

NHS Staff to transform patient care

2009-11-22T21:24:00.001Z

Twenty new projects, designed by frontline NHS staff to transform patient care were announced by Care Services Minister Phil Hope on Social Enterprise Day. All frontline staff working in Primary Care Trusts can set up a social enterprise to improve their services under the 'right to request' scheme. Projects include a wide range of services, including those for homeless people, children and young people and mental health services.

To read more click here:

http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/News/Recentstories/DH_108865

Dignity in care training pack

2009-11-22T21:19:00.001Z

Diginity in care training pack released, click here for more information:

http://www.dhcarenetworks.org.uk/News/NewsItem/?cid=6653

Anxiety mistaken for flu!

2009-11-22T21:16:00.001Z

Anxiety UK is calling for detection, awareness and treatment of anxiety after an anxiety disorder was diagnosed as common flu.

Read the press release here:

http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/information/news/?entryid17=76144

Credits for Caring Scheme

2009-11-22T21:10:00.001Z

The Princess Royal Trust for Carers has called for the introduction of a ‘Credits for Caring’ scheme. One million carers would get extra support and over £0.5billion new money would be available for carers if the system were adopted, say experts at The Trust.

For the full press release click here:
http://www.carers.org/news/credits-for-caring-scheme-could-save-millions,5274,NW.html

Sainsbury Centre welcomes government plan to implement Bradley report

2009-11-22T20:59:00.000Z

Sainsbury Centre welcomes government plan to implement Bradley report

The Government has issued a comprehensive five-year action plan for improving the support people with mental health problems get in the criminal justice system.

See the full press release by clicking here: http://www.scmh.org.uk/news/2009_welcomes_plan_to_implement_bradley.aspx

Funding support

2009-10-26T14:57:00.000Z

Community Action South and East Kent, which was previously known as Mid and SE Kent Council for Voluntary Service, has been working with and for the voluntary and community sector for many years.

CASE Kent provides:

Support to groups on issues such as setting up, funding and governance
A training programme relevant to the sector
Bi-monthly newsletters and e-bulletins to members
Mentoring to obtain the PQASSO quality standard
Support to various forums
Representation of the sector
A directory of local VCS organisations

Take a look at the website - http://www.casekent.org.uk/

Health Secretary clarifies Government position on disability benefits

2009-10-26T12:06:00.001Z

The Secretary of State for Health has made it clear that Disability
Living Allowance for the Under 65s will not be affected by Government
plans to create a National Care Service.

Click HERE to read full statement

NEWSFLASH - NEW MENTAL HEALTH WEBSITE

2009-10-15T16:25:00.001+01:00

NEWSFLASH - NEW MENTAL HEALTH WEBSITE

http://www.amimad.org/

This is a website for anyone who wants to find out more about mental health. What is mental health? Will it affect me? What does it mean if my doctor has referred me to another service? How do you find out what services are out there to support you, where and how do you access these services?

If these are some of the questions you have then this is the site for you.

Am I mad is hosted by the Eastern and Coastal Kent Primary Care Trust and the list of services are those that are nationally available and services that are specific to Canterbury, Swale, Thanet, Dover/Deal, Ashford and Shepway- the geographical boundaries of the PCT.

Stress Control Classes - Provided by the Counselling Team Ltd

2009-10-05T15:00:00.000+01:00

Click HERE to look an information sheet about the Stress Control classes that are currently being provided - at the moment these classes are by referral only, however once the IAPT self referral service is up and running this will change!

Time to Change Event - Walk on the 7th October

2009-09-23T19:55:00.000+01:00

Get involved with a Time to Change event - there will be a walking group leaving from Folkestone Library at 10.45am!

The walk will last approx one hour and everyone is welcome!

Get Involved - New Horizons Consultation Event FREE!

2009-09-22T14:54:00.001+01:00

The Future of Mental Health, the consultation event around New Horizons, London on 28 September is now available to attend at no cost.

Hear leading figures from mental health, including from the Department of Health, explain what the new vision entails and how it impacts particularly on local authorities and social care.

Click HERE for details on how to book to attend this event free of charge.

Movie Release - The Soloist

2009-09-22T14:28:00.001+01:00

Why not grab a friend and head out to the cinema?

The Soloist is based on the true story of Nathaniel Ayers, played by Jamie Foxx, a musican who becomes schizophrenic and homeless and his relationship with the columnist Steve Lopez played by Robert Downey Jr.

The film is out now and has received great reviews! Check out the official site HERE or contact your local cinema to find out screening times.

Rethink Survey - Your Voice Counts!

2009-09-17T23:13:00.001+01:00

Rethink's Black and Minority Ethnic Community Development Service is currently carrying out a survey called 'Your voice counts' - for every member of the Kent and Medway community to feedback their views.

Further information can be found below, and you can follow this link to take part in the survey:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=ZLmLxPCAsYogSb_2fJMZGrKw_3d_3d

Reena Sooch, Service manager CDW service, states:“Whether it is depression, anxiety, stress or panic we all have experience of ourselves or someone we know suffering a mild or moderate mental health problem and if we don’t receive treatment or support these problems can often become worse. We want to ensure that every individual is aware of support available to them and is able to access it without any barriers. There are many more severe mental health problems such as Schizophrenia, Bulimia or Post traumatic stress disorder, which also affect a significant number of people in our communities and they too with the right treatment can look towards recovery and hope.

'Your voice counts', with this survey we need to understand what our local community feel are necessary changes to improve access to mental health services. We would like to hear your voice about your experiences in accessing mental health services locally and your suggestions for improvements. Your opinion, experiences and suggestions will be involved in making changes that affect lives positively by improving services. Your contribution towards this survey is vital and will be much appreciated.”

All responses are confidential and will only be used for the purpose of identifying gaps in local services and to look at ways of improving service provision.

Any concerns or queries about this survey please email:cdw@rethink.org

Thank you.

Time to Change

2009-09-17T22:51:00.000+01:00

You can pick up some great information on the Time to Change Campaign - seeking to end mental health discrimination at www.time-to-change.org.uk

You can also order leaflets and other promotional items for your service to display by following this link: http://www.time-to-change.org.uk/actionpack

Let us know if you take part in or hold a Time to Change event by emailing heather.wells@kent.gov.uk

Well Being For All

2009-09-17T22:44:00.000+01:00

Celebrate World Mental Health Day in East Kent 12th to the 16th October

A week long exhibition in Margate Library

We Need YOUR poetry, photos, art, your time, your enthusiam and your support!

For more details or to offer your help please get in touch with Maggie Gallant at furst@rethink.org

Great Porchlight Website

2009-09-17T22:36:00.000+01:00

Have you seen the Porchlight website?

Porchlight are one of the foremost charities supporting vulnerable and homeless people in Kent.

Their website is great - take a look HERE!

New Singing Groups - Starting 21st September!

2009-09-17T22:31:00.001+01:00

Join one of the NEW singing groups running across East Kent!

Feel the benefits of singing with a group - meet new people, have fun and come along, even if you think you can't sing!

See below for all the starting dates:

Monday 21st September: Deal; The Exchange, 25 Stanhope Road, Deal, CT14 6AB 1.30pm - 2.30 pm

Broadstairs; Canterbury Christ Church University, Broadstairs Campus, Northwood Road, CT10 2WA 5.30pm -6.30pm

Tuesday 22nd September: Ashford; The CentrePiece, Bank Street, TN23 1BA
2.00pm - 3.00pm

Folkestone; The Cube Adult Education Centre, Tontine Street, CT20 1SD
Fitness Studio, 3rd Floor 5.00pm-6.00pm

Wednesday 23rd September: Sheerness; The Healthy Living Centre, off the Broadway, ME12 1HH, 2.00pm - 3.00pm

Faversham; Faversham Umbrella Centre, Court Street, ME13 7AT

Friday 25th September:Whitstable; Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, St. Mary's Hall, Oxford Street, Whitstable CT5 1DD 4.00pm - 5.00pm

Saturday 26th September: Folkestone; University Centre Folkestone, Mill Bay, Folkestone, Kent, Ct20 1JG 11.30am-12.30pm

Contact for more information:Isobel Salisbury
Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts & Health
University Centre Folkestone
Mill Bay, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 1JG
Tel. 01303 220870
Email: isobel.salisbury@canterbury.ac.uk

New Horizons Consultation

2009-09-02T16:48:00.001+01:00

Following on from the first New Horizons consultation event on the 25th June, you now have the opportunity to participate in an online discussion that will feed into the Department of Health's consultation process for New Horizons.

From the 7th of September 2009, the IDeA's Healthy Communities Programme will be hosting a discussion on their Community of Practice (Cop) on this new mental health strategy.The discussion will focus on the well-being framework, which identifies the root causes of poor mental health and suggests cost-effective interventions that communities can use to promote mental well-being.

Each week a different element of the well-being framework and the recommended interventions will be used as the discussion topic. From the discussion we would like to know whether you think any gaps exist, whether you think any interventions are missing, what national support you would find helpful and whether you have any examples of best practice you would like to share.

To participate in this discussion please follow the joining instructions below: Go to http://www.communities.idea.gov.uk and under 'Register and become a member today' select 'Register'Enter your details as requested and select 'confirm and complete'You will receive a confirmation email. Click the link to activate your account and search for 'healthy communities' to locate the CoP. Once you have found the CoP click on join.

Your application will then be accepted and you will have full access to the community. To locate the New Horizons Consultation Discussion click on the Forum tab and then click on the Mental Health theme.

Or once you are registered to the Healthy Communities CoP use this link: http://www.communities.idea.gov.uk/c/980146/forum/thread.do?backlink=ref&id=1868713&themeId=1868620
If you have trouble registering please contact dale.park@idea.gov.uk

Rethink - Your Voice Counts

2009-09-02T16:32:00.001+01:00

Rethink are currently carrying out a survey called 'Your voice counts' - for every member of the Kent and Medway community to feedback their views.

Further information can be found below, and you can follow this link to take part in the survey:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=ZLmLxPCAsYogSb_2fJMZGrKw_3d_3d

Reena Sooch, Service manager CDW service, states:“Whether it is depression, anxiety, stress or panic we all have experience of ourselves or someone we know suffering a mild or moderate mental health problem and if we don’t receive treatment or support these problems can often become worse. We want to ensure that every individual is aware of support available to them and is able to access it without any barriers. There are many more severe mental health problems such as Schizophrenia, Bulimia or Post traumatic stress disorder, which also affect a significant number of people in our communities and they too with the right treatment can look towards recovery and hope.

'Your voice counts', with this survey we need to understand what our local community feel are necessary changes to improve access to mental health services. We would like to hear your voice about your experiences in accessing mental health services locally and your suggestions for improvements. Your opinion, experiences and suggestions will be involved in making changes that affect lives positively by improving services. Your contribution towards this survey is vital and will be much appreciated.”

All responses are confidential and will only be used for the purpose of identifying gaps in local services and to look at ways of improving service provision.

Any concerns or queries about this survey please email:cdw@rethink.org

Thank you.

Credit Crunch Stressline

2009-09-02T16:22:00.000+01:00

Hi,

The 'credit crunch stressline' has been launched, further information can be found on the following website:- www.nhs.uk/LiveWell/Onabudget/Pages/Creditcrunchstresshelp.aspx

Information relating to DLA

2009-09-02T16:16:00.001+01:00

Hi,

Below is a link relating to Disability Living Allowance changes, for your information.

http://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/disability-living-allowance-%28dla%29/dla-aa-cuts

Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust's Annual Report

2009-09-02T16:05:00.000+01:00

Hi,

Please find below the link to the Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust's Annual report.

http://www.kmpt.nhs.uk/News_and_Publications/Publications/index.html

World Mental Health Day Walk

2009-09-02T15:58:00.000+01:00

Hi,

As part of the World Mental Health Day events, there are walks taking place in the Ashford and Shepway localities. All are welcome - and the walks will go ahead even if it rains!

Contact sara.moreland@eastcoastkent.nhs.uk or 07795841200 for more information.

INHERITANCE PLANNING EVENT

2009-08-28T11:38:00.001+01:00

Hi,

Canterbury and Coastal Rethink Carers' Support Group are holding an open meeting on Tuesday 15th September 2009, 7.30 pm at the Canterbury Umbrella (rear entrance, St Peter's Place, Canterbury, CT1 2DB)

There will be a presentation from Steven Howles, Senior Associate with the law firm Clarke Willmott about INHERITANCE PLANNING - WILLS, INHERITANCE TAX AND DISCRETIONARY TRUSTS.

Admission is free, with tea/coffee and biscuits provided.

For further details please contact the Area Joint Voluntary Coordinators, Chris and Cheryl Ives on 01227 760707 or email rethinkcanterbury@dsl.pipex.com

Some interesting information from Dave Woodward

2009-08-20T10:20:00.000+01:00

Dear all,

A couple of news items you may be interested in which thought i would put on the blogs for information

Dave Woodward

Films aim to tackle stigma of mental illness

10th August 2009 Mental Health Foundation

Two films that aim to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health have been launched today. Time to Change, a mental health anti-stigma campaign, is launching the films to coincide with a YouGov poll that reveals more than a third (34%) of the public believe people diagnosed with schizophrenia are likely to be violent.

Full Press Release

http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/information/news/?entryid17=74398

Six out of 10 suffer in silence with mental illness

10th August 2009 - Mental Health Foundation

More than six out of ten people with a mental illness will suffer in silence for at least a year before seeking help, it emerged today.

A new study showed almost a half of all patients will not discuss their condition with friends, while a fifth believe there is still a stigma attached to their illness.

The survey by St Patrick's University Hospital also showed more than half of all people felt afraid when diagnosed.

Some 37% were also ashamed and 29% embarrassed.

Paul Gilligan, chief executive of the mental health service provider in Dublin, said there are still many obstacles preventing sufferers from mental health problems from accessing appropriate care and treatment.

Full Press Release
http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/information/news/?entryid17=74383

5 Year Mental Health Strategy

2009-08-13T13:47:00.001+01:00

In partnership with the Health and Social Care Advisory Service (HASCAS), the three Kent PCT's are developing a five year Mental Health strategy based upon the shared vision of service users, carers, staff and commissioners.

HASCAS have set up a group site, which enables you to participate by giving your comments or by contributing to discussions. You can also view the Draft Vision document, and the feedback from the four consultation events.

Get involved at:

http://groups.google.co.uk/group/kentandmedwaystrategy

Welcome to your new blog!

2009-08-12T16:31:00.001+01:00

Hi!
Welcome to your new blog!

Use the blog to keep others up to date with your news, activites and any exciting or important information that you want to share.

Anyone can add to the blog, just email Heather Wells on hwells1@nhs.net with your update.

Any problems call Heather on 01634 382807, or email on hwells1@nhs.net

Get blogging!