An external evaluation found that the Achieve Drug and Alcohol Service's approach to partnership-working is effective in supporting recovery from substance misuse, and could be rolled out in other geographical areas 

Drug and Alcohol Recovery services for Bolton, Bury, Salford and Trafford have been praised in an evaluation report, undertaken by SQW, an independent research and consultancy organisation.  

The Achieve Partnership, led by Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH), brings together cross-sector organisations, to provide support and treatment, for those struggling with drug and/or alcohol addiction. 

This includes wrap around support for a range of social needs which can have a huge impact on recovery, such as housing, employment, training and education and mutual aid.  

The partners are: 

Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (Lead) 

Big Life Group 

Early Break 

Great Places Housing 

Intuitive Thinking Skills 

Salford CVS 

Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust (part of Northern Care Alliance) 

Those on the Margins of Society (THOMAS) 

The external evaluation report found that this collaborative and holistic approach to supporting people with addictions is 'overwhelmingly positive', and successful in responding to 'the multifaceted and complex needs individuals present with'. 

The key findings of the report were: 

All partners 'displayed resilience' during the COVID-19 pandemic, by adapting and keeping frontline services open throughout. 

The partnership model works effectively, with GMMH providing 'effective leadership and modelling the necessary culture and behaviours', with all partners benefitting from access to NHS training, resources and platforms. 

People who had received support and treatment through the service were 'very positive' about this experience. They benefitted from referrals and signposting across partners. 

The role of GMMH as the lead for recovery services is crucial, and has had a positive impact on relationships with partners and commissioners. It has also led to efficiencies in the use of public funds. 

There is potential for this service model to be replicated in other geographical areas. 

The report also highlighted a number of recommendations to further improve the Partnership's offer. This included: awareness-raising and training for partners to thoroughly understand the offer of each partner; and further opportunities for information-sharing, evaluation, co-design, and reflection on and celebration of the work done. 

The findings of the independent review were announced at a celebration event on 13th July. This included talks from a range of community partners and people who have benefitted directly from the range of support on offer, particularly through support from asset funding, building and sustaining recovery across the partnership. 

One service user, who takes part in community gardening projects run through the Partnership, alongside receiving housing and addictions support said: 

Quote

"It's all about being a part of, and contributing to, the community that I was only ever on the margins of before. It gives me a sense of purpose, and that is priceless. I am so grateful for this." 

Kate Hall, Head of Operations for Addictions Services at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH) said: 

Quote

 

"In January 2018, GMMH were awarded the contract to deliver really exciting and innovative services across the GM boroughs of Bolton, Salford and Trafford. This was the first 'cluster commissioned contract' outside of London. 

"GMMH and Big Life Group commissioned SWQ on behalf of the Achieve Partnership to undertake an independent evaluation of our Achieve Drug and Alcohol Recovery services so that we could truly understand how effectively we are delivering support and treatment, and what further opportunities there may be to improve this.  

"Partnership-working is at the very heart of our approach to supporting people to recover from substance misuse problems, and it is fantastic to see it praised so highly in the SQW report. It is so encouraging to see that service users and stakeholders speak highly of the service, and value GMMH as the lead provider. 

"The report found that our service model is unique and innovative, bringing public and third sector partners together to effectively deliver high quality, holistic care and treatment to those struggling with addiction, whilst also maximising the opportunities to utilise public funding efficiently and boosting the community support available, now and in the future. 

"We are now committed to implementing the further recommendations underlined in the report, and will work with all our partners to prioritise embedding them into our service model."  

 

Evaluation of Achieve Final Report with Executive Summary.pdf

More than 16 million repeat prescriptions were ordered via the NHS App in the last year, with millions of patients benefitting from health services available through the app. 

Throughout the pandemic use of the NHS App has rapidly increased and, in the last year alone (June 2021-May 2022), NHS Digital figures show that:

Over 16 million repeat prescriptions were ordered

1.3 million GP appointments were booked

GP records were viewed more than 90 million times

277,000 organ donation decisions were registered

More than 22 million NHS App sign-ups (following the addition of the NHS COVID Pass in May 2021)

The NHS App has now recorded more than 28 million sign-ups, with over 22 million new registrations in the last year. More than 24 million of these have fully verified their identity through NHS login. This means they can now access a variety of digital healthcare services quickly and securely through the NHS App.

In June 2022 alone, the NHS App enabled 1.8 million repeat prescriptions to be ordered, 130,000 GP appointments to be booked and 4.8 million GP records to be viewed, saving vital time for both patients and clinicians.

Simon Bolton, Interim Chief Executive at NHS Digital, said:

Quote

"The NHS App is a great example of how technology is being used to help patients take control of their healthcare in a convenient, secure and timely way. Millions of adults are now using the app every month to order repeat prescriptions, book GP appointments and view their GP records. It's great to see use of the app continuing to increase, helping millions of people access healthcare services across England directly from their phone."

Dr Timothy Ferris, NHS Director of Transformation, said:

Quote

"The NHS App is already in the pockets of millions of people, providing easy access to crucial everyday NHS services like repeat prescriptions. Our vision is to transform the NHS App into a front door for the NHS, with many exciting new features and changes planned over the coming months and years from better access to your GP record, to booking your Covid vaccine appointments."

The new plan for digital health and social care published by the Department of Health and Social Care on 29 June commits to a target of 75% of the adult population to be registered to use the NHS App by March 2024.

The NHS Trust has been rated 'Good' in all areas of their education and training programme for apprentices. 

Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH) has been rated 'Good', following an inspection by Ofsted in May 2022.  

GMMH - which provides inpatient, community and specialist mental health services across Greater Manchester and the wider North – is an accredited 'employer provider', offering apprenticeships for staff to gain further knowledge, skills and a formal qualification at levels 2 and 3.

In a report published on 18 July 2022, Ofsted has praised all areas of the Trust's education and skills offer. 

These areas, all of which have been rated 'good' are: 

The quality of education 

Behaviour and attitudes 

Personal development 

Leadership and management 

Apprenticeships 

Overall effectiveness 

The regulator found that apprentices find their experience 'rewarding and empowering', and are 'passionate' and 'proud' to work at GMMH and the health sector.

The report also states that GMMH has developed an 'inclusive culture', and that 'apprentices demonstrate GMMH values of integrity and respect while caring for patients.'

Several areas of good practice are highlighted, including: 

Opportunities for apprentices to broaden their learning beyond GMMH's in-house offer (through volunteering, the national numeracy challenge and attending external courses). 

Opportunities for apprentices to be promoted. 

Processes to make sure apprentices feel safe at all times. 

Individual support and feedback from coaches. 

Using engaging learning methods such as quizzes and reflection. 

A strong focus on developing apprentices' confidence, independence and resilience. 

Referring to the overall apprenticeship offer at GMMH, the report states: 

Quote

"Apprenticeships form an important part of the wider workforce development strategy at GMMH to fill recruitment gaps and improve staff retention. The curriculum enables apprentices to perform their job roles effectively. They treat patients as individuals, for example by adapting their non-verbal communication and tone of voice. The apprenticeship prepares apprentices for the next step in their career." 

The report also highlights three recommendations to further improve apprenticeships at GMMH; focusing on setting individualised targets, providing independent careers guidance, and strengthening the process for governors to challenge and hold to account leaders and managers for the quality of education provided. 

Andrew Maloney, Executive Director of HR and Deputy Chief Executive at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH) said: 

Quote

 

"Developing our staff to gain the skills, knowledge and behaviours they need to fulfil their potential, and provide the best possible care to our service users, is a key priority for GMMH.

"We are delighted to have received such positive feedback from Ofsted, reflecting the hard work and dedication of our Apprenticeship Team. We are so thankful for this, and for the commitment and passion that managers from across the Trust have demonstrated in supporting their team members to grow. We continue to be so impressed by and grateful for our apprentices' dedication to our service users and the care they provide.

"We are now looking forward to implementing the report's recommendations, to ensure we continue a high standard of education, training and support for all our much-valued apprentices." 

 

Michael Cusick is currently undertaking a Healthcare Support Worker Level 2 apprenticeship at GMMH.

He said:

Quote

 

"I absolutely love my role and apprenticeship. I love working with people and caring for them, it's just so nice to be able to do that.

This is a brand-new way of working for me - I used to be in the building trade, but I decided I wanted to help people. So I decided to go for it. The teaching on the apprenticeship has been such quality. I'm coming towards the end now, and hope to go on to do my Nursing Associate training afterwards. The Trust has been so supportive in enabling me to do this - I want to thank the apprenticeship team and everyone who has supported me." 

 

Michael Mabochrist is currently undertaking a Business Administrator Level 3 Apprenticeship at GMMH.

He said:

Quote

 

"I am currently working as a Citywide Administrator, and I believe that doing an apprenticeship will help me progress in my role and career.

"The apprenticeship team have been great – they have been very supportive, ensuring I have a dedicated study day alongside my working days.

"My advice to anyone thinking about doing an apprenticeship would be to go for it! You'll learn a lot and will have all the help and support you need." 

 

A Nursing Support Worker who broke down barriers to help patients on a Child and Adolescent Mental Health ward has been shortlisted for a prestigious award from the Royal College of Nursing (RCN).

Jemima Lacey, who works at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH), has been selected from hundreds of entries as a finalist in the Nursing Support Worker category of the RCN Nursing Awards 2022.

Jemima has been described as kind and caring as well as clinically skilled, going over and above to support, empower and collaborate with the young people she works with on her ward.

When speaking about being shortlisted for this award, Jemima said,

Quote

 

“I was truly shocked to be nominated; it is the most humbling, rewarding, and enriching feeling.

“I am deeply passionate about good care; I think everyone deserves this and I always treat patients as I would want my loved ones to be treated. To have my work recognised in this way is just the best. I never expected I would be here.”

 

As well as her dedication towards supporting young people and being a champion for safewards – a research-based model to prevent incidents on wards – Jemima supports newer or less experienced staff by providing training to help with the delivery of individualised care, ensuring her high standards are passed on.

Gill Green, Chief Nurse at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust said,

Quote

 

“I am so proud to hear that Jemima has been shortlisted for the Nursing Support Worker Award in the RCN Nursing Awards 2022.

“Jemima supports the day-to-day provision of care for our patients, including recovery and discharge planning. She has been recognised for her outstanding work, as well as for developing a package of care to support a young person with complex needs, by optimising and supporting a successful pathway for discharge.

“Jemima regularly goes above and beyond to support her colleagues and patients, and this recognition for her hard work is well deserved.”

 

RCN General Secretary and Chief Executive Pat Cullen said,

Quote

 

“This shortlist showcases the very best of nursing and highlights the work we do day in, day out to improve the health and well-being of our patients.

“I am so proud of all the finalists.”

The Foundation of Nursing Studies is the event’s charity partner. Its Chief Executive and Chair of the awards judging panel Joanne Bosanquet said,

“The quality of entries again this year was so high that it was nearly impossible to choose finalists from the creative and innovative work submitted.

“The shortlist showcases excellence and recognises the enormous difference that nurses make to people’s lives throughout the UK.”

 

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Thursday 6 October at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel in London.

The Department for Education has announced that the model piloted in the GM will be rolled out across the country

The Greater Manchester Universities Student Mental Health Service – a partnership between Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH), NHS Greater Manchester, and the region’s five universities - has been hailed a success.

The service - which is open to students at the University of Bolton, University of Salford, University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University and the Royal Northern College of Music - provides mental health assessment, support and treatment to students, so that they can fulfil their university experience and ambitions.

The service works closely with existing university mental health services (such as University Counselling and Wellbeing services) and other mainstream mental health services (including voluntary and community organisations) to provide a joined-up approach to preventing students across the region from ‘slipping through the gaps’.

Dr Timothy Alnuamaani, Consultant Psychiatrist at the Greater Manchester University Student Mental Health Service team, GMMH, said:

Quote

 

“As students move into higher education, they may be embarking on independent living for the first time, moving to new cities and making new friends. They are often moving away from their usual support networks. They may also not be registered with a GP in the university area, or may move address frequently.

“All of this means that students are more likely to slip through the gaps in the health system when they are at their most vulnerable. Our service has been successful in filling those gaps, and ensuring that students receive the right mental health support at the right time so they can go on to thrive.”

 

The service launched in September 2019 - just months before the start of the COVID pandemic. Throughout the pandemic, the service stayed open and continued to offer face to face and online appointments. Support and treatment such as group therapy also continued online.

Since the launch, over 960 students have been supported by the service.

Student feedback from September 2019 up to the end of Jun 2022 found that 97% rated the staff as good or excellent, 97% rated the information given to them as good or excellent, and 98% rated the overall experience as good or excellent.

One student, who would like to remain anonymous, said:

Quote

 

“There is no doubt in my mind that the student mental health service has saved my life. When I started with the service, I felt completely lost and broken. It felt as if the service dropped out of the sky when I desperately needed it most.

“The staff were absolutely fantastic, I can't put it into words, but fantastic doesn't do them justice. To put a body back together is one thing, but a mind? That is far less textbook.

“I received nothing short of the support I needed, in the way I needed it, for as long as I needed it; right from being quite unwell, to being knee deep into recovery, all the way until I confidently felt I could hold my own.

“I am in utter disbelief of how much of a difference the support and therapy has made, and how it has in turn, enabled me to achieve things that weren't even on my radar because I thought they were out of reach.

“This year I did not just scrape through my finals, but I managed to perform better than I ever have. I ranked in the top 6% students in my subject in the country which I still cannot believe - it landed me my dream job. None of this would have been at all possible without the support from the service. I can't believe a service like this exists and I feel very lucky that I was able to access it.”

 

Simon Merrywest, Director for the Student Experience, University of Manchester, and Co-Chair of the Student Mental Health Service Board, said:

Quote

 

“This unique partnership has transformed the support available to students studying in Greater Manchester and in need of a range of interventions provided by the NHS.

“Crucially, the service is part of a continuum of support with the universities’ mental health services with teams working together to agree an integrated care plan for each student.

“Evaluation of the service has already demonstrated significant benefits for students and university wellbeing teams, whilst simplifying referrals into the NHS and helping to secure more timely access to the most appropriate support”.

 

Greater Manchester was one of five regions to pilot a university model. Following this success, in June 2022, the Department for Education announced that up to £3 million will be invested over the next academic year to roll the model out across the country.

For more information about how a referral can be made into the Greater Manchester Universities Student Mental Health Service, visit the service information page.

Bupa has become the Official Healthcare Partner of ParalympicsGB, in a three-year partnership to provide British Paralympians with the highest quality healthcare on their journey to success at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games - and beyond.

Through Bupa, the athletes will be provided with the medical expertise needed to reach the peak of their performance as they look to build on their impressive achievement of 124 medals, across a record breaking 18 different sports, and a second place medal table finish at Tokyo 2020. Bupa will support Paralympic athletes across the whole range of sports preparing for Paris 2024.

The partnership will include practical health assessments designed to give a full overview of health and wellbeing to prevent and address concerns, as well as physical and mental health services.

Through the partnership Bupa and ParalympicsGB will also collaborate to challenge perceptions around disability in society, celebrating difference and diversity in order to help everyone achieve their goals, while also promoting inclusivity in business, healthcare and other areas of life.

The partnership was launched at Bupa’s offices in Salford, Manchester, on Wednesday 6 July, by Bupa Global & UK CEO Carlos Jaureguizar, alongside Mike Sharrock, Chief Executive of the British Paralympic Association, and Aaron Phipps MBE, gold medal-winning wheelchair rugby player.

Aaron Phipps MBE, Wheelchair Rugby Tokyo 2020 gold medallist, says:

Quote

 

“Throughout my life and sporting career I’ve worked to challenge perceptions around disability so it’s great to see Bupa and ParalympicsGB partnering to bring this to the forefront of our society. There shouldn’t be any barriers to anyone reaching their full potential in life and the more we can spread that message, the more we can achieve together.

“To compete at an elite level it’s vital that we have access to the highest quality medical advice and support. Being able to utilise the UK’s top clinicians and services through Bupa has the potential to give us all a real competitive edge.”

 

Carlos Jaureguizar, CEO for Bupa Global & UK, says:

Quote

 

“Paralympians show us that there’s nothing you can’t do when you put your mind to it. It’s this determination that inspires us in our mission to change the face of healthcare.

“Working with ParalympicsGB gives us the unique opportunity to understand the needs of more people in society, ultimately reflecting the diverse needs of our customers. It’s important to celebrate our diversity and each of our differences, in order to make a tangible shift in perceptions of disability in our society. Together, we want to inspire the next generation to believe that anything is possible.”

 

Mike Sharrock, Chief Executive at the British Paralympic Association, says:

Quote

“For everyone, whether you’re an athlete or not, looking after your health and wellbeing is crucial and I am delighted this partnership will give ParalympicsGB athletes access to an array of additional support for their mental and physical wellbeing. We’re proud to be partnering with Bupa, and it’s clear based on their experience of working with Paralympic athletes and organisations around the world that they will be just as keen as we are at ParalympicsGB to make this a truly meaningful partnership, driving the change we want to see in perceptions of disability.”

The partnership with ParalympicsGB continues a long-standing history of partnering with national Paralympic associations for Bupa. In 2007, Sanitas, part of Bupa Group, became the Official Medical Provider for the Spanish Paralympic Committee and has since supported over athletes at several Paralympic Games. Since then, Bupa has gone on to support Paralympians in Poland and Chile – providing healthcare support to the Paralympic teams and developing health and wellbeing initiatives and programmes for their athletes.

Today (1^st July) marks the 15-year anniversary of the introduction of smokefree law, protecting people from second-hand smoke in restaurants, pubs, bars, shops, offices and workplaces. 

It is estimated that around 1 in 4 people in Greater Manchester smoked in 2007, compared to just 1 in 6 today – a dramatic fall in smoking prevalence rates [1]. But the message from NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care is that more needs to be done to make smoking history for everyone.

That’s why it is launching the latest phase of the successful Never Quit Quitting campaign, with the aim of helping thousands of people to make a quit attempt.

During the last phase of the campaign, more than three quarters (76%) of smokers [2] who saw the campaign took positive action to go smokefree, including looking for support, cutting down, and quitting.

Never Quit Qutting is running on TV, radio, digital, and outdoor advertising across the city-region with messages backed by NHS doctors, nurses, ex-smokers and current quitters.

It highlights the serious health risks of smoking, while encouraging smokers to increase their chances of quitting with a combination of personalised support and stop smoking aids.

 Andrea Crossfield, Making Smoking History Lead at NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care, said:

Quote

“It’s hard to imagine a time when smoking was the norm in pubs, bars, restaurants and workplaces. We’ve made amazing progress in the last 15 years, but we need to end the harm and misery tobacco causes killing 2 in 3 long term smokers [3]. In Greater Manchester, our target is to make smoking history by 2030. 

“The Never Quit Quitting campaign recognises that smoking is an addiction and everyone has a different quit journey.

“If you’re still smoking, there has never been a better time to quit. We want everyone who smokes to know that there are so many ways to quit and they can access whatever support they need to help them stop for good.”

This latest campaign follows The Khan Review: Making Smoking Obsolete, released earlier this month. Among its 15 recommendations it calls for investing more into stop smoking services alongside investment in national media campaigns, supported by regional media. The success of Greater Manchester’s Never Quit Quitting campaign was highlighted within the report.

Dr Matt Evison, Clinical Lead for Making Smoking History, said: 

Quote

 

“Smoking is still a huge problem for society. Every single day I see people who are living a shadow of a life they could be – all because of smoking.

“But the good news is – take the decision now and, literally, as soon as you stop smoking, your body starts to repair itself. Put out that last cigarette and you’ll begin to feel healthier within 24 hours. The poisonous carbon monoxide will leave your bloodstream and your lungs will start to clear of mucus.

“Week-by-week, month-by-month – the longer you are smoke free, the lesser your chances of heart attacks, cancer or lung disease. I see first hand the impact, too many in our Greater Manchester hospital beds are smokers.

“The right advice and support will help you to quit, so talk to your GP, local pharmacy or stop smoking service. Never quit quitting.”

 

Those sentiments are echoed by Stockport mum-of-two Charlotte Finchett, 50. Nine years ago she completely changed her life when she quit smoking with the help of nicotine replacement.

When Charlotte’s car broke down and she couldn’t find the money to get it fixed, she knew she could no longer afford to smoke.

She explained:

Quote

“When I first decided to quit smoking, I missed the comfort, but I soon realised it was more like a monster on my shoulder. Once I was able to let go, I felt I had my life back. And with the extra money I was able to buy a new car which was fantastic.”

Since quitting smoking, Charlotte has helped others overcome their addiction. She now works as a stop smoking specialist at The Christie, supporting cancer patients to quit.

She adds:

Quote

“As an ex-smoker myself, I know first-hand how challenging quitting can be. But it’s important to keep trying and to get the right support. Quitting takes practice, but you don’t have to do it on your own. In fact, with a bit of help, you’re far more likely to succeed.”

Visit www.makesmokinghistory.co.uk to get free access to the latest quitting aids, apps, information, one-to-one advice, and local support in Greater Manchester.

NHS leaders in Salford are preparing for new ways of providing top-class health and care services for the people they serve from Friday, July 1.

The way health services are bought and planned on behalf of Salford are changing nationally in line with the new Health and Care Act 2022 which aims to improve joined-up care for people who rely on a number of different services at the same time. As part of this, a new NHS organisation is being formed called NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care.

This organisation brings together staff from all 10 Greater Manchester clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) – including Salford – as well as Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership and Greater Manchester Shared Services, which will all disband on July 1.

It will be at the heart of a wider partnership called Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership which involves all the different organisations that support the health and social care of residents across the city region. These include NHS organisations, councils, voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) colleagues and other key partners.

It also means there will be a local integrated care partnership in each of the 10 Greater Manchester areas – in Salford this will be called Salford Integrated Care Partnership – that brings the same partners together within the city to ensure Salford residents get the best possible services.

The partnership will help organisations work better with the public to keep everyone healthier; plan and deliver health services more effectively; make sure everyone is treated equally and fairly; help the NHS become as efficient as possible, and also help it contribute to the wider economy.

Dr Tom Tasker, outgoing chair of Salford CCG, said:

Quote

 

“We have achieved a lot over the past nine years and we will ensure this strong legacy is taken into the new NHS organisation and will continue to integrate care locally through the Salford Integrated Care Partnership.

“Our aim is healthier lives and better health and social care services for all our residents across Salford and we will work closely with our public in order to do this. The GP practices and primary care networks across our city will continue to form the cornerstone of local health and care in Salford.

“We have achieved a lot as a CCG and we are firmly committed to making the most of the opportunities that this new phase offers.”

 

As part of the changes from July 1, there will be a new Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership website which will offer more information on the aims and new ways of working for health and care in the city region. Patients will still be able to access information and help about their local services.

Clinical commissioning groups were/are NHS organisations set up by the Health and Social Care Act 2012 following the 2010 White Paper, ‘Equity and Excellence: Liberating the NHS’ which stated the Government’s desire to create a health and care system that has the patient’s needs at its heart.

The 10 Greater Manchester CCGs were formed between 2012 and 2013 and replaced primary care trusts (PCTs). They were led by GPs and clinicians whose experience in patient care helped to develop and deliver effective services for the public.

Salford CCG’s top achievements include:

Investing £1 million per year into the Third Sector Fund, helping to improve the health and wellbeing of Salford citizens by investing in grants to voluntary organisations, community groups, social enterprises and primary schools.

Securing £18 million from the Greater Manchester Transformation Fund to fund Innovation projects – testing new ideas and innovative ways of working across primary care, the community and voluntary sector as well as in partnership with our providers.

Introducing the Salford Stand to improve the quality of care patients should expect to receive from Salford GP Practices

Launching Salford Urgent Care Team to relieve pressure on Salford Royal Hospital’s emergency department, allowing them to treat those with more serious conditions.

Managing Salford’s COVID-19 Vaccination Programme, delivering vaccines to three quarters of adults in Salford, including an award-winning programme to deliver vaccines to people with learning disabilities.

Sir Richard Leese, chairperson of NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care, said:

Quote

 

“This is a significant step forward for how we ensure the people we serve across the whole of Greater Manchester get equal access to the best possible health and care services.

“Thanks to the devolution arrangements given to our city region, we have already built a strong foundation of true partnership working and our teams will be no strangers to working together for the benefit of our people.

“Our aims for the next few months will be ensure the integration of our neighbourhood teams, improve mental health services, support our GP practices, ensure people have access to urgent and emergency care, and reduce inequalities.

“These are just some of the things which we in the NHS, and our partners, do to help all of us live the best lives we can.”

 

Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership is one of 42 integrated care systems being established across England on a statutory basis on July 1 following recommendations from NHS England and NHS Improvement and Royal Assent of the Health and Care Act (2022).

"Enough is enough." These are the words etched onto paper by over 20,000 people in an open letter, published by Target Ovarian Cancer, urging the government to take action on the ovarian cancer awareness crisis – a disease which kills 11 women every day1. 

Today, Target Ovarian Cancer campaigners marched to Number 10 Downing Street to amplify the voices of thousands of people who have signed the open letter demanding that the government take urgent action to save lives.  

This momentous milestone – the first time thousands have come together to call on the government in this way – comes following the alarming findings of the charity's latest research which revealed that four out of five2 women could not name the key symptom of ovarian cancer, persistent bloating. This is in addition to the Ovarian Cancer Audit Feasibility Pilot which revealed 14% of women diagnosed in England between 2013 and 2018 died within two months of diagnosis, and 30% died within the first year3. 

The open letter has been led by Target Ovarian Cancer – the UK's leading ovarian cancer charity that improves early diagnosis, funds life-saving research and provides much-needed support to everyone affected by ovarian cancer. 

As there is no current effective screening process for ovarian cancer, knowing the symptoms – persistent bloating, abdominal pain, feeling full quickly, and needing to wee more urgently – is essential to survival and early diagnosis. 

Annwen Jones OBE, Chief Executive of Target Ovarian Cancer, said: 

Quote

 

"At Target Ovarian Cancer, we know that there is a huge crisis in ovarian cancer awareness and diagnosis and are overwhelmed by the strength of support our open letter has received. It's extremely sobering to see over 20,000 people come together to demand that the government take immediate action to save lives. 20,000 voices cannot be ignored.  

"The reality is that too many people are dying as not enough is being done to make the symptoms of ovarian cancer known. The reality is that diagnosis is coming too late because of this. The reality is that we need the government's support to reach anyone who could be diagnosed early with this disease in order to save lives."

 

The open letter tells the government what is needed to combat the crisis: dedicated ovarian cancer symptoms awareness campaigns across the UK. One supporter who joined fellow Target Ovarian Cancer's campaigners is Annie Griffin, who was diagnosed with stage Ia mucinous ovarian cancer – a rare type of ovarian cancer – in 2020.

Annie added: 

Quote

 

"If we don't share our ovarian cancer experiences with our MPs how will they know what we go through? How can we expect change if we don't speak up? 

"The weeks and months that it took to get diagnosed and finally understand what was wrong with me took their toll. I genuinely thought it was middle age, perimenopause, and fibroids. Nothing rang alarm bells, and I don't want that to happen to other women. That's why we need more awareness around ovarian cancer, that's why I'm on a mission to help make that happen."  

 

The charity was outside Westminster today on behalf of 20,000 people, demanding the government take urgent action on the ovarian cancer awareness crisis. 

Della Ogunleye, 60 from London, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2019, also attended the open letter hand in, added: 

Quote

 

"Target Ovarian Cancer amplifies our voices. Together, we can reach places and have conversations that we may not be able to achieve alone. The saying goes, if you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far go together.  

"We need greater awareness of symptoms now. By standing together our voices will be louder." 

 

To find out more about Target Ovarian Cancer or access its support line visit https://targetovariancancer.org.uk.  

A Salford school officer has won a prestigious national award for her inspiring support for wellbeing in a school community and championing positive mental health.

Tracey Redgrave, Children and Families Officer at Lewis Street Primary School, has won the Adult Champion category at Place2Be's Wellbeing in Schools Awards this month. Place2Be is a mental health charity for children and young people, providing services in schools.

Tracey received the award at a special ceremony at BAFTA in London on Monday 13 June, celebrating the children, young people and adults who go above and beyond to support mental health in their schools. She works closely with Place2Be, encourages positive family involvement in the child's learning, providing support when needed. 

Tracey said: 

Quote

"I feel completely humbled. I can't believe I've won and what a fantastic reflection on our school and Salford. It really was a very special day for me and my family, for Wendy McCormack my Executive Headteacher and all the school community, I am still in shock!"

Tracey looks after a wide range of aspects of care and support for children at the school. She is the lead for safeguarding and child protection and mental health across the school. As a member of the Partnership Pastoral Team across three schools, she is involved in the anti-bullying strategy as well as provision of therapies for children and young people with special educational needs and vulnerable children and their families.

Wendy McCormack, Executive Headteacher at Christ Church CE; Lewis Street and Lark Hill Primary Schools Salford said:

Quote

"Congratulations to Tracey! I am delighted that Tracey has won this award, and deservedly so. She is caring, compassionate and exceptionally diligent in all aspects of her work as a Children and Families Officer at Lewis Street Primary School and a valued member of our Partnership Pastoral Team."

Councillor Jim Cammell, Lead Member for Children's and Young People's Services, said:

Quote

"It's excellent news that Tracey has received this award. She is very dedicated to supporting children. She is a great example of our vision in Salford to help all children and young people achieve their potential through a high-quality education that puts them on a path to future success. We want our city's children and young people to thrive, be happy, healthy and safe."

Tracey works with Salford City Council on various schemes including Emotionally Friendly Schools and Thrive in Education (TIE). TIE is the council's mental health support team to children, young people and schools in the city. Salford was one of the four trailblazer sites in Greater Manchester for implementing this national mental health in education programme.

It includes low intensity one to one support for children; consultation and advice for schools and access to training for senior mental health leads and other school staff, whole school support and school development and advice and support for parents. Salford's TIE team is a service delivered by three mental health providers  (Salford CAMHS, 42nd Street and Place 2 Be) and is supported by the council's Educational Psychology Service and early help school coordinators.

The Place2Be awards recognise passion, determination and hard work in schools across the UK to promote positive mental health and wellbeing.

Open to schools that work with or have recently trained with Place2Be, the aim is to celebrate inspiring ambassadors of positive mental health. This includes children, young people and adults who go above and beyond to support mental wellbeing in their school communities.

The UK Heath Security Agency (UKHSA), working with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), has found poliovirus in sewage samples collected from the London Beckton Sewage Treatment Works.

As part of routine surveillance, it is normal for 1 to 3 ‘vaccine-like’ polioviruses to be detected each year in UK sewage samples but these have always been one-off findings that were not detected again. These previous detections occurred when an individual vaccinated overseas with the live oral polio vaccine (OPV) returned or travelled to the UK and briefly ‘shed’ traces of the vaccine-like poliovirus in their faeces.

Investigations are underway after several closely-related viruses were found in sewage samples taken between February and May. The virus has continued to evolve and is now classified as a ‘vaccine-derived’ poliovirus type 2 (VDPV2), which on rare occasions can cause serious illness, such as paralysis, in people who are not fully vaccinated.

The detection of a VDPV2 suggests it is likely there has been some spread between closely-linked individuals in North and East London and that they are now shedding the type 2 poliovirus strain in their faeces. The virus has only been detected in sewage samples and no associated cases of paralysis have been reported – but investigations will aim to establish if any community transmission is occurring.

The last case of wild polio contracted in the UK was confirmed in 1984. The UK was declared polio-free in 2003.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA said:

Quote

 

Vaccine-derived poliovirus is rare and the risk to the public overall is extremely low.

Vaccine-derived poliovirus has the potential to spread, particularly in communities where vaccine uptake is lower. On rare occasions it can cause paralysis in people who are not fully vaccinated so if you or your child are not up to date with your polio vaccinations it’s important you contact your GP to catch up or if unsure check your Red Book. Most of the UK population will be protected from vaccination in childhood, but in some communities with low vaccine coverage, individuals may remain at risk.

We are urgently investigating to better understand the extent of this transmission and the NHS has been asked to swiftly report any suspected cases to the UKHSA, though no cases have been reported or confirmed so far.

 

Jane Clegg, Chief nurse for the NHS in London said:

Quote

 

The majority of Londoners are fully protected against Polio and won’t need to take any further action, but the NHS will begin reaching out to parents of children aged under 5 in London who are not up to date with their Polio vaccinations to invite them to get protected.

Meanwhile, parents can also check their child’s vaccination status in their Red Book and people should contact their GP surgery to book a vaccination, should they or their child not be fully up to date.

 

The UK is considered by the World Health Organization to be polio-free, with low-risk for polio transmission due to the high level of vaccine coverage across the population. However, vaccine coverage for childhood vaccines has decreased nationally and especially in parts of London over the past few years, so UKHSA is urging people to check they are up to date with their vaccines.

Wastewater surveillance is being expanded to assess the extent of transmission and identify local areas for targeted action. Healthcare professionals have been alerted to these findings so they can promptly investigate and report anyone presenting with symptoms that could be polio, such as paralysis.

A new leader responsible for the integration of health and care in Salford has been appointed.

Known as a ‘place-based lead for health and care integration’, Tom Stannard, will head up a newly formed Integrated Care Partnership in the city as part of national government changes to the way the NHS and local councils support people’s health and social care.

Tom Stannard, who is the Chief Executive of Salford City Council, is one of 10 place-based leads appointed in Greater Manchester as the city region moves towards a fully integrated NHS and social care system from 1 July, 2022. He will take the place-based lead as part of his existing role at the council, demonstrating Salford’s long-standing commitment to a strong and effective partnership.

As part of the Health and Care Act 2022, a new statutory NHS organisation is being formed – NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care – at the heart of a wider Integrated Care Partnership involving all the different organisations that support the health and social care of residents across our region.

As part of these arrangements, there will be Integrated Care Partnerships in each of the 10 boroughs, also made up of NHS organisations, the council, Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) colleagues and other key partners.

Each partnership will work with the public in their local area, and with the wider system across Greater Manchester, to enable healthier lives and plan and deliver better health and social care services for all, as well as tackle health inequalities and the wider determinants of health featured in the Sir Michael Marmot report.

Mark Fisher, Chief Executive designate of NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care, who will take up his role officially on 1 July, said:

Quote

 

“This is an exciting new era for Greater Manchester and I’m proud to be a part of it. I’d like to welcome the new place-based leads and am looking forward to working with them as they come into post.

“We are all building on a strong history of partnership working, most notably after the devolution of health and social care in 2016, and our priorities to tackle health inequalities and deliver high quality NHS and social care services will remain and be amplified. Our partnerships at a local level will help us to collaborate more closely than ever before and improve the health and wellbeing of all.”

 

Tom Stannard, Salford’s place-based lead for health and care integration, added:

Quote

“I am really pleased to be taking on the place-based lead role for Salford alongside my chief executive role for the City Council.  Our commitment to the delivery of excellent local health and care services is central to our ambition to tackle inequalities in the city and provide the best possible life chances for residents.  We have the building blocks in place, an outstanding clinical commissioning group, an excellent foundation trust hospital, good children’s services, and one of the strongest voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) sectors in Greater Manchester. I pay tribute to our CCG colleagues and the CCG’s exceptional leadership in Salford over recent years, which has paved the way for this new local healthcare partnership. This is an exciting time for Salford and the council is fully committed to strengthening our partnerships and to continue to deliver excellent services to our residents”.

Place-based leads in each locality will be accountable to both the Integrated Care Board Chief Executive and the relevant local authority, and will oversee delegated resources from NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care.

The Locality Board, made up of people from the local authority, the NHS, the voluntary sector and wider partners reflective of each place, will drive local integrated care partnerships at neighbourhood and district level.

A new research study led by the Mental Health Nursing Research Unit (MHNRU) at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH) will train NHS staff working in services designed to help people who are experiencing psychosis to deliver an innovative form of talking therapy for service users.

The CAMEO study, which is delivered in partnership with the University of Manchester, will train Care Coordinators in NHS Early Intervention Services in a type of talking therapy, called Method of Levels (MOL), to support service users’ recovery from psychosis.

The aim of MOL is to help service users resolve distressing problems and gain more control over important aspects of their life. MOL is a way of helping people explore problems in depth with the aim of coming up with new solutions to their difficulties.

Staff delivering MOL use curious questions to help people focus their awareness on problems and resolve conflicts that are believed to cause psychological distress.

The study will aim to find out whether it is possible for Care Coordinators to deliver this talking therapy, to understand service users’ experiences of working with an MOL-trained Care Coordinator, and determine whether a larger clinical trial should be carried out.

£250,000 of funding has recently been approved for the CAMEO study by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the research partner of the NHS, public health and social care.

Dr Robert Griffiths, Director of the Mental Health Nursing Research Unit and Chief Investigator for the CAMEO study, said,

Quote

 

“This is the largest study to be delivered so far by the Mental Health Nursing Research Unit (MHNRU). We hope this project will increase our understanding of how to make Early Intervention Services even more helpful for people reporting psychosis-related difficulties.

“Care Coordinators play a vital role in supporting people’s recovery from psychosis. This project has the potential to contribute to the development of an innovative new approach to supporting people experiencing psychosis that Care Coordinators can use in their routine practice.

“We also think that the delivery of this project demonstrates the value of the MHNRU and the role it plays in supporting research which is led by mental health nurses.”

 

Early Intervention Services provide support for people who have experienced their first episode of psychosis, helping with recovery and to reduce the risk of relapse. Care Coordinators in Early Intervention Services use different methods to help people understand their experience of psychosis, and to develop a package of care to support service users with their recovery.

The study, which is recruiting participants until October 2023, aims to recruit Care Coordinator and service user participants from twelve Early Intervention Services in three participating NHS Trusts, including GMMH. Care Coordinators taking part in the study will be offered training and supervision in how to deliver MOL and be supported to incorporate the approach into their work with service users.

The CAMEO study is now recruiting Care Coordinator and service user participants within GMMH. Recruitment will begin in other participating Trusts soon. If you would like more information or are interested in taking part in the study, contact Robert Griffiths, Chief Investigator: Robert.Griffiths@gmmh.nhs.uk.

Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH) has launched a service to support people to recover from the lasting effects and impact of COVID-19 infection.

The Post-COVID Syndrome Service (PCSS) brings together a multi-disciplinary team of expert health professionals to help those who are suffering from Post-COVID Syndrome to improve their physical and psychological wellbeing, and daily functioning.

The PCSS will work with people to find ways to manage persisting symptoms to discover what changes can be made to help make a meaningful difference to their quality of life.

The service is now open to adults registered with a GP in the areas of Manchester, Salford, Trafford, Bolton or Wigan, alongside all Trust staff.

Dr Dale Huey, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Strategic Lead for Primary Care Psychological Therapies at GMMH said:

Quote

 

“Post-COVID Syndrome, sometimes referred to as Long COVID, describes signs or symptoms that have persisted beyond 12 weeks after an infection consistent with COVID-19, where no alternative explanation has been found.  Common symptoms, which can fluctuate over time, include problems with breathing, fatigue, difficulty thinking and concentrating, headache, joint or muscle pain, sleep problems and mood changes.

“Living with Post-COVID Syndrome can have a significant impact on psychological wellbeing and affect how fully people are able to live their life. The newness of the syndrome, and the fact the onset was triggered by an infectious disease beyond our control, has left many struggling with debilitating symptoms and the uncertainty of what they mean about the future.

“We are absolutely delighted to be able to launch our Post-COVID Syndrome Service, designed to help people still struggling with often significantly disabling symptoms. Who, as the world moves on from the economic, social and psychological consequences of COVID, may feel left behind, demoralised, worried and alone.

“These are our people. We will assess and help clarify the nature of the concerns people have and work collaboratively towards each individual’s most meaningful achievable goals; learning from each other as we go. Remaining curious and hopeful about the outcomes which can be achieved whilst giving support, increasing understanding and providing easy access to ways of self-managing persistent physical symptoms which have the best evidence for producing positive change.”

 

Rifkah Cohen, a service user of the Post-COVID Syndrome Service said:

Quote

 

“COVID-19 has left me with longer lasting symptoms including brain fog, breathlessness, migraines and severe fatigue. The more I try to push through the exhaustion, the more I crash and the less I achieve. It's not surprising that I get frustrated, anxious, and sad at times.

“Hearing about the new Post-COVID Syndrome Service gave me hope.  I think it's really important to be proactive in managing your physical health, but it can be really tiring when living with the effects of COVID-19. 

“I signed up for support because it's refreshing to be able to take time for myself, to work with a therapist, taking stock, and thinking about what I need to do next to support myself. I’m really looking forward to working on my recovery with the service.”

 

The PCSS team is made up of a range of different professionals for an approach to recovery. It will include Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners, Cognitive Behavioural Therapists and more senior Psychological Therapists; alongside a Clinical Health Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, Psychiatrist and Pharmacist.

The team will work closely alongside GPs and other local health services to ensure care is being provided in a holistic and collaborative way.

The service accepts self-referrals or referrals from other health professionals. The service will be available to those who are:

living with the lasting effects and significant impact of a probable COVID-19 infection on physical wellbeing, psychological wellbeing and/or daily functioning (including cognitive function);

feeling low, anxious or otherwise finding it difficult to adjust to their experience of COVID-19;

over the age of 18;

registered with a GP in Manchester, Wigan, Salford, Bolton or Trafford. 

For more information, visit: gmmh.nhs.uk/post-covid-syndrome-service

Depending on need, the service may also recommend onward referral or signposting to other services, which could include physical rehabilitation services, secondary care mental health services, addictions services or urgent care services.

People living in Bury, Rochdale, Oldham, Stockport, Tameside and Glossop will be supported by a post-covid service run by Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust. penninecare.nhs.uk/postcovid.

The Salford Mental Health Urgent Care Area – a dedicated space at A&E for patients to wait for a mental health assessment in Salford – has been praised eight months on.

Launched last year by Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH), the area offers a calm and comfortable space for people who may find A&E a difficult environment when experiencing a mental health crisis, and provides additional support from staff trained specifically in mental health.

Over 400 people each month attend Salford Royal Hospital A&E with a mental health concern, and the Mental Health Urgent Care Area is offered to just under a quarter of referrals from the Emergency Department.

Patients who have attended the area found this to be “quiet and calm” and said, “the staff were really friendly and supportive and [I liked] the fact that they kept checking on me to make sure that I was safe.”

Rebecca Billington, Service Manager for Salford Mental Health Urgent Care Area, said:

Quote

 

“Having a dedicated space for people, who are either waiting for, or receiving an assessment from the Mental Health Liaison (MHLS) Team, allows service users to access support and reassurance from Mental Health Support Workers, in a calm environment, when experiencing a mental health crisis.

“The area has been welcomed by partners, as well as our service users and carers. Feedback since opening in August 2021 has been overwhelming positive, and people using the area have found the space effective in helping them through a difficult time.”

 

The area sits within the Emergency Department at Salford Royal Hospital and was established through partnership working with Northern Care Alliance (NCA) and Salford Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

The area has recently celebrated its eight-month anniversary, and since opening last year, has supported over 470 patients with their mental health whilst attending A&E. The area’s success has been praised by partners.

Ruth Chamberlain, Managing Director, Integrated Care Division (Urgent and Emergency Care) for Salford Royal Hospital, part of Northern Care Alliance, said:

Quote

 

“We’re delighted to work with our GMMH colleagues to deliver a service which offers more supportive and responsive care to patients who present to the Emergency Department with a mental health crisis.

“Feedback from both patients and staff has been extremely positive and we look forward to further supporting the development of mental health services for the people of Salford.”

 

A Research Unit, dedicated to researching inequalities in mental and physical healthcare, and to improving health outcomes for under-served populations, has been launched in Greater Manchester.

The Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Research Unit (EDI-RU), launched in May 2022, is funded by Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH), and led by Professor Dawn Edge, Professor of Mental Health & Inclusivity at GMMH and The University of Manchester (UoM).

The EDI-RU will undertake research to better understand people’s lived experiences to develop learning and interventions that help to eradicate mental and physical health inequalities experienced by people across a range of protected characteristics like age, disability, gender, ethnicity, and religion.

Professor Dawn Edge, Professor of Mental Health & Inclusivity at GMMH and UoM, and lead of the EDI-RU said:

Quote

 

“Research shows that the quality of healthcare that we receive, and overall health outcomes (for example, recovery and relapse rates in psychosis) are linked with factors such as ethnicity, age, gender, disability, how much we earn and where we live.

“We know that those living in poverty or in deprived areas are more likely to experience worse health outcomes, and that the picture is even worse for members of minoritised groups and people living with disabilities.

“The Unit will undertake sector-leading research to improve care and outcomes for under-served, marginalised communities; by evaluating the relationship between protected characteristics and health inequalities.

“We will work with people with lived experience, from diverse backgrounds – including staff and community members – to learn from their experiences and co-create new and inclusive treatments and care models that improve access to mental and physical healthcare and effectiveness of interventions for all.

“We will also educate and train mental health and care staff to expand their knowledge and develop their expertise and confidence in working with diversity using anti-discriminatory approaches.

“Our vision is that our work will positively impact on the provision of healthcare across Greater Manchester, the UK and beyond.”

 

The work of the EDI-RU will build upon several active research projects already run by GMMH and UoM, including:

The Culturally-Adapted Family Intervention (CaFI) study, testing the effectiveness of a new type of ‘talking therapy’ developed specifically with people of Sub-Saharan African and Caribbean origin who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia or other related psychoses and their families.

Clinical Research Network (CRN) funded study, aimed at increasing participation of people from under-represented groups in research by training researcher staff and Community Research Champions.

The EDI-RU will work collaboratively with other Research Units, and the GMMH BAME Network, to ensure expertise is shared and diverse voices are heard.

Frances Fenton, Chair of the BAME Network said:

Quote

 

“This Research Unit is a huge investment on behalf of the Trust, and demonstrates their real commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.

“There is so much knowledge and expertise out there – from our diverse patients and members of the community who have lived experience of using NHS services, to staff who work directly with patients every day, and understand their needs, as well as their own.

“It is so encouraging to see the EDI-RU’s plans to get these groups actively involved in research. It will provide us with an opportunity to shape the care we deliver by those and for those who understand what is needed most, to be more inclusive and effective, and improve staff experiences.”

 

Investment in the new EDI-RU – which has been hailed as a serious demonstration of the Trust’s commitment to taking inequalities in patient care, developing staff, and serving local communities – was funded in line with the GMMH Equality and Diversity Strategy for 2019-2021. It comes in anticipation of GMMH’s new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) strategy, due to be launched later this year, which will build upon this work.

To find out more about the EDI-RU and how you can take part in EDI research, visit: https://www.gmmh.nhs.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion-research-unit

Information on the length and context of GP appointments is being included in NHS Digital’s statistics on consultations in general practice from today.

Appointments in General Practice, March 2022 is the latest publication in a monthly series containing experimental statistics1 about activity and usage of GP appointments2.

It includes information such as the number of appointments, the number which were attended or not and the time between booking and appointment date3.

The report published today also contains three new measures:

Figures on the duration of consultations, in minutes. This field is recorded differently depending on the practice’s system supplier, which leads to variations in data quality that NHS Digital is continuing to address with system suppliers and practices

Further detail on the context of the activity, such as whether it was an appointment involving the patient directly or clinical activities on behalf of the patient. There is also a further breakdown into the category of the activity, such as routine general consultation, planned clinic or home visit

More detail on the healthcare professional leading appointments, broken down to roles including GPs, nurses and staff providing other direct patient care

Get The Full Report Here

A new treatment and support clinic has opened to help people from across Greater Manchester who are experiencing gambling related harms.

Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) is working together with Manchester City Council, Change Grow Live, Beacon Counselling Trust and NHS Northern Gambling Service to provide help for people experiencing gambling related harms.

Located at Change Grow Live’s Phoenix Mill site, the Manchester city centre clinic opened its doors on 14th April and will offer free and confidential support for residents that need help or advice on gambling or the impact of gambling.

Gambling is often described as a hidden issue but can have serious consequences for finances, relationships, and health, as well as causing feelings of guilt, shame, and helplessness. GMCA is working with partners to ensure people can get the right support at the right time to prevent gambling from becoming a source of serious harm.

David Regan, Director of Public Health, Manchester City Council said:

Quote

 

“Manchester City Council has been supporting the work of the GMCA Reducing Gambling Harms Programme for some time now, so we are particularly pleased that, with the help of our colleagues at Change Grow Live, we are able to offer treatment space in Manchester city centre. By working together we can provide the right support for our residents.

“Gambling harms can be an overlooked issue, but one in 15 people in Greater Manchester experience the harmful impacts of gambling. This new clinic is an important step forward in supporting residents and I would like to encourage anyone who thinks they might need help to access the services available.”

 

Lauren Campbell, Treatment Manager at Beacon Counselling Trust said: 

Quote

 

“We are proud to be a part of this gambling support clinic, working alongside GMCA, Change Grow Live, and the NHS Northern Gambling Service. We recognise the importance of individuals receiving the right support at the right time, which is why we are proud to work alongside other services to ensure each treatment pathway is tailored to the individual’s needs.

“We offer free and confidential treatment to individuals at risk of, or experiencing, gambling-related harms, including their affected family, friends, and partners, and by working within the Greater Manchester Clinic, we are able to link up with other organisations to offer smooth and efficient referrals across other support services when necessary.”

 

To access this service, Greater Manchester residents can self-refer by visiting https://beaconcounsellingtrust.co.uk/problematic-gambling/, calling 0151 226 0696 or emailing gamcare@beaconcounsellingtrust.co.uk. Alternatively, residents are encouraged to discuss their needs with a professional, such as GP or caseworker who can make sure you get the right support.

This new clinic is being delivered as part of the GMCA gambling harms reduction programme. GMCA is bringing together partners from across the 10 localities in Greater Manchester as part of an innovative public service reform and population health agenda to prevent and reduce gambling related harms in our communities.

You can find out more about the support available across Greater Manchester for people experiencing or at risk of gambling related harms from the GMCA website: GMCA – accessing treatment and support

A national study, delivered by nine NHS Trusts, including Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH) in Manchester, has found that automated virtual reality (VR) technology can successfully help people recover from mental health problems.

In the largest ever clinical trial of VR for mental health, led by researchers at the University of Oxford and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, and funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), the automated therapy was shown to work well for patients diagnosed with psychosis. The biggest benefits were experienced by those with the most challenging psychological problems.

In a landmark development, psychological therapy has been automated in virtual reality. With the user guided by a virtual coach, there is no need for a real-life therapist, meaning the treatment can reach many more patients.

The gameChange VR program targets a problem that is common in people diagnosed with psychosis: intense fears about being outside in everyday situations. For many patients, these fears develop into a severe agoraphobia that means they avoid leaving the home, severely disrupting relationships with family and friends, their education, and careers.

gameChange is designed to treat this agoraphobia and help patients re-engage with day-to-day activities. It takes them from a housebound existence to life back in the world outside. With the user guided by a virtual coach, there is no need for a real-life therapist, meaning the treatment can reach many more patients.

Professor Daniel Freeman, lead researcher, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford and NIHR Senior Investigator, said:

Quote

 

“Virtual reality psychological therapy has come of age with gameChange. Over the past 25 years VR has been used in a small number of specialist mental healthcare clinics. It has supported in-person therapy delivered by a clinician. However, with gameChange, the therapy is built in, so it can be overseen by a range of staff. And it can be delivered in a variety of settings, including patients’ homes.

“We are delighted that gameChange has produced excellent results for people with some of the most challenging mental health problems. Individuals who were largely housebound have got back outside. Using today’s affordable and easy-to-use consumer VR equipment, we think gameChange will lead a transformation in the digital provision of evidence-based psychological therapy, with deployment at scale for treatments that really work.”

 

GMMH joined the gameChange trial in July 2019, and throughout the trial period, worked with 58 service users to deliver and evaluate the therapy in Greater Manchester.

Dr Elizabeth Murphy, gameChange Trial Coordinator and Research Clinical Psychologist, said:

Quote

 

“GMMH agreed to join the gameChange trial to embrace the technological innovation in psychosis treatment, as there is a high prevalence of psychosis in Manchester and the North West. Many people with psychosis experience disabling levels of agoraphobia, and gameChange virtual reality therapy offers high quality, engaging and effective psychological intervention for agoraphobia in psychosis.

“The trial at GMMH recruited service users from seven localities across Greater Manchester, including Bury, Bolton, Salford, Trafford, Manchester, Tameside and Salford, showing a commitment from Greater Manchester to contribute to research and innovation in psychosis treatment.

“Looking to the future, we hope to implement gameChange virtual reality therapy into routine clinical services. This will involve a piloting phase to test the feasibility of implementing the program into a sample of community teams, who are currently treating people with psychosis.”

 

gameChange led to significant reductions in the avoidance of everyday situations and in distress. However, the patients who benefitted most significantly were those who found it hardest to leave the house, and those with most psychiatric symptoms, such as severe anxiety, depression, delusions, and hallucinations. These patients experienced large benefits – for example, being able to undertake activities they had previously found unthinkable. These benefits were maintained at the six-month follow-up.

Patient feedback showed that the treatment was very popular, with very high up-take rates. It was found that patients are keen to try psychological interventions, but seldom receive them. Automated VR, with an in-built virtual coach, offers an innovative and effective way out of this impasse.

Leo, Service User Co-Producer of the gameChange trial at GMMH, said:

Quote

 

“When I first found out about using virtual reality in recovery work, I questioned how this would all work. After working with a team and trying out their VR software, I gave therapy a go. When I took off the headset, I felt more confident with speaking to people and using eye contact in social situations. I felt as if it had conquered a fear. I know in my heart, for a fact, that if I had found gameChange earlier, my recovery process would have taken half the time it did. It truly showed me the possibilities of using virtual reality for therapy. 

“I think gameChange is an important research project that could revolutionise the way therapy is delivered, through the use of virtual reality.” 

 

This research is funded by a multimillion-pound award from the UK Department of Health: the inaugural National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) i4i (Invention for Innovation) Mental Health Challenge Award. It was also supported by the NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre.

Professor Mike Lewis, NIHR i4i Programme Director, said:

Quote

“This impressive research exemplifies what NIHR aims to achieve through its i4i funding scheme – truly transformational technology that can change people’s lives for the better. We’re really excited about the potential for gameChange to bring the benefits of psychological therapy to many more people in their own homes through the medium of virtual reality.”