Publish date: 10 December 2024
On 22 November 2024, community mental health services hosted a visit from Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust. During the visit, key updates and achievements were shared, reflecting the collaborative progress made in transforming mental health services. Andrew Williams, Deputy Divisional Director and Helena Keeley, Head of Nursing introduced the Community Mental Health Framework, emphasising its core principles and vision for improved care. Andrew also highlighted advancements in the implementation of four week referral to treatment, showcasing its role in streamlining service delivery and enhancing efficiency.
The evolution and impact of the transformation team, from inception in 2019 to its current role in 2024, was discussed, underscoring its success in driving innovation and adaptability. Project Manager, Claire Newton with colleagues Carolyn Gaskell and Sophie Harrison from the transformation team provided an overview of the team’s 11 workstreams, detailing initiatives like workstream meetings, project plans, the Transformation Programme Oversight Meeting and highlight reports, all designed to support better outcomes.
Ed Kelly, Senior Lived Experience Worker and Ann Taylor, Senior Peer Support Worker introduced the impactful roles of Lived Experience Peer Support Workers and the harm reduction welcome calls, highlighting their contributions to person centred care and service user engagement.
Representatives from Kent and Medway were impressed with the progress and achievements shared, noting the productive exchange of insights and experiences during the day. This visit fostered valuable shared learning, reinforcing the commitment to excellence across both services.
