Handy guide to wellbeing http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust are inviting the public to its members' meeting to be held at the Oliver Cromwell Hotel in March on 3 June 2008, starting at 2.30pm. The meeting is also open to members of the general public interested in joining the local NHS organisation. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandpeterboroughcambridgeshirenhstrustmeeting290508.htm Staff from the South Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust [SEPT] are celebrating after winning three awards at a national award ceremony. The British Journal of Nursing awards, held recently at the Landmark Hotel, London, highlighted and rewarded excellence in nursing across a range of disciplines, and recognised the importance of clinical nursing and patient care throughout the United Kingdom. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandessexnhstrustawards280508.htm The National Autistic Society [NAS] has opened a new branch in Derby and is inviting local people to their launch event on Tuesday 3 June at 7.30pm at The Riverside Centre at Pride Park. The branch is run by volunteers and opens on UK Volunteers’ Week [visit website: www.volunteersweek.org.uk]. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandderbynationalautisticsociety280508.htm The effects of singing on people with mental health needs will be explored at a public seminar on Tuesday 27 May 2008 at the Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts and Health, University Centre Folkestone, Mill Bay, Folkestone. Psychotherapist, Tracy Morefield, will present the work of 'Sing Your Heart Out', an organisation which has successfully regenerated mental health across the county of Norfolk through a series of singing workshops. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandfolkestoneserviceusers230508.htm Leading older people's charity Help the Aged has launched a viral film to support its campaign to end age discrimination. Created by independent production agency, Kirkwall, the video is a spoof of early 1950s public service announcements. It mocks out–of–touch and unacceptable perceptions of sexism and racism and contrasts this to 2008 – a time 'in the future' when discrimination based–on age is still acceptable and perfectly legal. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukcampaigntoendagediscrimination290508.htm The University of Leicester is leading a study looking at the number of adults in the community who have an autism spectrum disorder. The Government has pledged an additional £500,000 for the research and the study will be the first–ever Government strategy on adults with autism and Asperger's syndrome. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukleicesteruniversityautismresearch280508.htm Some of Britain’s biggest entrepreneurs launched a campaign to get more young people into business. BBC Dragons’ Den stars Deborah Meaden and James Caan, Peter Cruddas, Charles Dunstone, Lord Billimoria, founder of Cobra beer, and Travelex founder Lloyd Dorfman launched the campaign with HRH The Prince of Wales to mark the 25th anniversary of The Prince’s Trust Business Programme. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorstheprincestrust.htm The number of homeowners across England facing the threat of repossession in the last three months is now 37,740, a rise of 17 per cent on the previous quarter. This figure represents an increase of 20 per cent from the same time last year, when the number of repossession claims issued stood at 31,533. The Ministry of Justice figures show court cases involving cash–strapped homeowners have risen in almost every region throughout the country, and point to the fact that some lenders are using court action earlier than ever before to 'manage' their borrowers mortgage problems. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsshelter.htm The Ramblers’ Association welcomes the spread of the ‘Walkers are Welcome’ initiative, with three more towns across Britain now admitted to the ranks of communities with the Walkers are Welcome accolade. The first village will be awarded the status shortly. Church Stretton in the Shropshire Hills, Market Weighton in East Yorkshire and Kilsyth, at the foot of Scotland’s Kilsyth Hills, have become Walkers are Welcome towns. They join the four original Walkers are Welcome towns, west Yorkshire’s Hebden Bridge, Prestatyn in north Wales, Moffat in Dumfries and Galloway, and Mytholmroyd, also in west Yorkshire. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorstheramblers.htm BTCV, the UK’s largest practical conservation charity, can report a massive increase in the number of disabled people taking part in environmental conservation activities. As published in the BTCV Diversity Report 2008, the greatest rise was amongst BTCV’s key volunteers, where the proportion classing themselves as disabled has gone from zero to one–in–ten in just two years. For all BTCV volunteers, the figure has moved from nine per cent to 11per cent, while the percentage of paid staff reported as disabled has more than quadrupled from 2.5 per cent to 12 per cent. Conditions range from limited mobility and hearing impairment to Dyslexia. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsbtcv.htm With all the talk of the 'credit–crunch' and increased levels of indebtedness I thought it would be timely to discuss a little known court procedure that can assist people who owe less than £5,000. There is a court procedure known as an 'administration order' that can provide help for people struggling to replay debts of less of £5,000. To make an application you need to have an existing county court judgement against you and have at least one other debt. As a general rule only non–priority debts can be included in the order – things, such as catalogue debts, bank loans, credit cards and overdrafts. The advantages of the order are many. Firstly, once the order is accepted by the court all interest and charges on the debts are stopped, and creditors are no longer allowed to contact you directly. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorswelfareweasel.htm The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence [NICE] has issued guidance on promoting the social and emotional wellbeing of children in primary education. The social and emotional wellbeing of children is important in their development, not only in terms of performance at school, but it can also help protect children against poor physical health, emotional and behavioural problems, violence and crime, teenage pregnancy and the misuse of drugs and alcohol. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsnice.htm The time of year can often determine how our body shapes will be. As we emerge from the long dark days of winter into the sun–filled days of spring and summer it’s a great time to reassess our physical fitness. Each person’s body make–up is unique; our body shapes are in part determined by the genes we inherit. Certain people may be prone to carrying more weight on their frame and this, combined with poor eating and activity habits, can result in weight gain and even obesity. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsbupa.htm Phil Hope MP and Minister for the Third Sector launched the Impact project at Brooke Weston Community Technology College, Corby, Northants. He was joined by inspirational Duke of Edinburgh’s Award volunteering champion, extreme charity fundraiser Lloyd Scott. He was accompanied by the nine foot high robot that he wore during this year’s London Marathon. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsdukeofedinburghsaward.htm Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust has a new board of governors after recent elections. Twenty new public and patient governors have been elected. Staff members also elected four new staff governors. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandcambridgeshirepeterboroughtrust.htm A new book shows the potential impacts of climate change on birds. A Climatic Atlas of European Breeding Birds maps potential changes in distribution of all of the continent’s regularly occurring nesting birds. It shows that for the average bird species the potential distribution by the end of this century will shift nearly 550 km north east, equivalent to the distance from Plymouth to Newcastle. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsrspb.htm Parents and carers are being advised that children suffering from a cough or cold should be treated with paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower the child’s temperature and if they have a cough to use a simple cough syrup [such as glycerol, honey or lemon]. For young babies, who are having difficulty feeding, nasal saline drops are recommended to help thin and clear nasal secretions. Vapour rubs and inhalant decongestants, which can be applied to a child’s clothing, can also be used to provide relief from a stuffy nose. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsmedicinesandhealth.htm Mind will launch a major new campaign on 12 May 2008 as part of Mind week 2008, our annual awareness–raising event. The campaign will highlight the high levels of debt among people with experience of mental distress. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsmind.htm World Mental Health Day, 10 October 2008. The World Federation for Mental Health [WFMH] 2008 World Mental Health Day campaign theme is 'Making Mental Health A Global Priority – Scaling Up Services Through Citizen Advocacy and Action'. The campaign will highlight the messages contained in The Lancet series released in September 2007 about the urgent need for improved mental health care, particularly in low– and middle–income countries. It also focuses on core values of the Federation in its 60th anniversary year. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorswfmh.htm Later this Spring or early Summer, the Government will release the new National Carers Strategy, outlining their goals for carers’ support. The Princess Royal Trust for Carers has been a key partner in this review of the 1999 Strategy. We hope that the new Strategy will accomplish an important shift towards the recognition of all carers’ roles and expertise, and offer greater provision for their needs nationally. As mental health lead for the Trust, my chief concern is that the Strategy improves the lives of the 1.5 million carers in the UK looking after someone with a mental health problem. This would also improve the care and support mental health service users receive. In advance of the Strategy’s release, this is an excellent time to outline the issues surrounding mental health carers, and see what needs to be done to address them. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsprincessroyaltrustforcarers.htm In recent weeks the news has been dominated by stories of soaring food prices which are affecting the world’s poorest people. During the last year, the cost of foodstuffs which form the basis of poor people’s diets has increased sharply; rice by 75 per cent, and wheat by a staggering 130 per cent. The UN has warned that the current crisis could push 100 million people living on less than $1 a day deeper into poverty, increasing the risk of malnutrition and starvation. The World Bank has called for targeted subsidies to help the poor buy food. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorshelpageinternational.htm The National Phobics Society [NPS], the anxiety disorders charity, is currently reviewing and developing services for young people and the people that support them. This is due to feedback we have received from users of our service. We have had a number of calls over the last year regarding services for young people and children. These have been from their parents, teachers, support workers and from young people themselves. The first phase of this plan was to implement a dedicated area of our website to young people [you can see it by visiting: www.phobics-society.org.uk/youngpeople.php]. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsnationalphobics.htm At the beginning of a recent training day, reveals Juliette Angus, Start In Manchester’s occupational therapist [OT], I was asked: 'So what do you like about your job?' I must confess that with previous jobs I would be racking my brain to think of the positives, hearing myself half heartedly reel off things I only quite liked; but not this time – this time it was easy to be positive. Start in Manchester, part of Manchester Mental Health and Social Care Trust, uses the process of engaging in art and gardening as a vehicle to help people improve, maintain and protect their mental wellbeing. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsstartmanchester.htm Profile: Chamomile, a wonderful plant of air and light. The names of Chamomile are very confusing: It is most frequently given to Chamaemelum nobile [also called Anthemis nobilis], a creeping downy perennial herb common in Western Europe. This can be upright, albeit straggly, growing from one to two feet, or a dwarf non–flowering cultivar [Treneague] bred for making lawns or seats. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsweledauk.htm Throughout Depression Awareness Week during April, NHS Careers highlighted the NHS staff that help patients with depression. The theme for this year’s campaign was employment. As well highlighting the NHS staff helping sufferers every day with their condition, NHS Careers wanted to portray the staff helping sufferers get back into employment. Michael’s story is just one of the many examples that illustrates this. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsnhscareers.htm SureCare Hereford has been selected to work in partnership with Herefordshire Council and Herefordshire Mental Health Services on a pilot scheme to provide a specialist intermediate care service in the county. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandherefordshirecare290408.htm Service users at Runwell Hospital in Wickford, Essex, have set–up a car valeting service which will fund vouchers for use in shops in the local community as well as vocational projects, days out, celebrations for service users and other events. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandsouthessexcommunity280408.htm Almost 500 people gathered at the Reebok Stadium in Bolton recently for a celebration of health and social care in the North West. The Health and Social Care Awards are the flagship awards of the Department of Health and coincide with the 60th anniversary of the NHS. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnhsnorthwestawards280408.htm The Mayor of Cambridge, Jenny Bailey, made a special visit to Darwin Nurseries at Teversham recently to see some of the work being carried out by people with learning disabilities and mental health needs. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandcambridgepeterboroughnurseries280408.htm People act in their own best interests, according to traditional views of how and why we make the decisions that we do. However, psychologists at the Universities of Leicester and Exeter have recently found evidence that this assumption is not necessarily true. In fact the research, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, shows that most of us will act in the best interest of our team – often at our own expense. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukleicesteruniversityresearch290408.htm The National Phobics Society, the anxiety disorders charity, in conjunction with MacQuarie University [Sydney] are holding a series of one–day training courses that will allow those with a background in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy [CBT], psychology or those with significant experience of working clinically with young people, to be equipped to deliver a structured CBT program for the treatment of anxiety disorders in children and young people. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/uklondonedinburghbirminghammanchesternewcastle280408.htm NHS patients often have concerns about how their complaints are handled and want NHS trusts to say sorry more often, according to the Healthcare Commission. This body reviews cases where the patient is unhappy with the response to a complaint and now calls on the NHS to learn more from complaints made by service users. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/uknhspatientscomplaints100408.htm Hundreds of health staff decided to practice what they preach at a series of lifestyle events staged across the North East of England. Darlington Primary Care Trust [PCT] and County Durham PCT organised five of the special workshops designed to boost the health and well-being of staff. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnortheastdarlingtoncountydurham110408.htm Are you thinking about your drinking? That was the question that members of Torbay Care Trust’s Primary Care Alcohol Service put to shoppers in Torquay town centre this week [Wednesday 9 April]. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englanddeventorbaytrustalcoholservice110408.htm Cornwall Partnership Trust is seeking six–a–side football teams to take part in a day of football on 21 May 2008. The event is being organised by Cornwall Partnership Trust together with Cornwall College St. Austell, Pentreath Industries, Cornwall Works and North Cornwall District Council. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandcornwallfootballtournament110408.htm Stuff Stigma is the name of a campaign recently launched in Norfolk in an attempt to banish prejudice towards people with mental health needs. Run by mental health charity Rethink, the three–year campaign aims to increase mental health awareness among people in Norwich and change people’s behaviour towards those with mental illness. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnorfolknorwichcampaign110408.htm To improve the physical, mental and social well being of their employees, businesses in six areas across England are to receive better advice and support from the NHS. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandphysicalmentalsocialwellbeing100408.htm Voluntary and community care organisations around the country will share in £24 million worth of Government grants. Bereaved families are among those set to benefit since the charity Cruise Bereavement Care was awarded a £200,000 grant over three years to develop services for ex–military personnel and their families. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandcommunitycaregrants100408.htm Open Arts, a new free Community Arts project for adults, which launched in Westcliff, South Essex in March has proved such a success another course is scheduled to start on Monday 21 April at the Adult Community Learning Centre, Rocheway, Rochford and will run between 10.15am and 12.30pm. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandwestcliffessex090408.htm The Government has recently announced proposals for major changes to the structure of the NHS in Wales which are designed to reduce bureaucracy, remove the internal market and improve patient care. The Welsh Assembly Government has put them out for a three month public consultation and wants the Welsh people to have their say. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/walesnhsconsultation100408.htm A Swansea consultant with an international reputation for research in orthodox medicine is joining a group of British GPs in a visit to India to learn about Ayurveda, which has origins going back 5,500 years, is believed to be the oldest surviving complete medical system in the world. Translated as ‘knowledge of life’, it is in daily use in India, Nepal and Sri Lanka, and is a unique blend of science and philosophy that balances physical, mental, emotional and spiritual components. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/walesgpsinternationalvisit110408.htm The Northern Ireland Assembly has announced the membership of the review group into Northern Ireland’s services for those with acquired brain injuries, and the ways by which patients can access the services they need. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/northernirelandpatients1004088.htm Garry Coutts has been appointed to serve for another four years as chairman of NHS Highland’s Board. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlandnhshighlandappointments040408.htm NHS Grampian has approved initial business plans for a new £83 million emergency care centre at Foresterhill in Aberdeen which will integrate emergency services on the northeast's main hospital site. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlandaberdeencare040408.htm Prescription charges in Scotland have been reduced under moves undertaken by the Scottish Government. The changes mean the cost of a single prescription item has been lowered from £6.85 to £5 and the cost of a Prescription Pre–payment Certificate [PPC] is 51 per cent cheaper. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlandpresciptioncharges030408.htm Elaine Cockburn, head of midwifery, for NHS Borders, was ‘Highly Commended’ in the Robert Tiffany International Award category of the annual Nursing Standard Nurse Awards, which took place in London at the end of March. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlandnhsborders030408.htm An innovative new scheme to help people get back to work after periods off sick has been launched by NHS Ayrshire and Arran and Jobcentre Plus. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlandnhsayrshirearran030408.htm Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust has made substantial progress in its efforts to address failures in its services for people with learning disabilities, according to the Healthcare Commission’s recent progress report. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandcornwallnhs070408.htm South Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust [SEPT] has appointed Lorraine Cabel as the chairman of the Board of Directors and Board of Governors. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandessexnhsappointment040408.htm Some 10,000 bi–lingual A2–size posters are to be sent to local health boards and local authorities in Wales for patients to see what the Welsh Assembly Government's main priorities are for the NHS over the coming year. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/walesnhspatients030408.htm As Summer Time begins for many people who experience low–mood and depression the change in seasons can actually heighten their feelings of hopelessness and despair, reports Breathing Space Scotland. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlandlowmooddepression310308.htm Acas is urging businesses in the West Midlands of England to save money and reduce absenteeism by focusing on ensuring employees are healthy at work. The employment relations service has launched a new guide to help businesses promote and manage a healthy workplace. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandwestmidlandshealthwork030408.htm South Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust [SEPT] will retain its national Investors in People [IiP] status for a further three years following assessment in January. The Trust has been accredited as an IiP organisation since 1996. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandsouthessexnhstrust020408.htm A sports academy with a direct access hostel is among three projects for the homeless in the North East of England which have been awarded a provisional allocation of £3,250,000 to upgrade facilities and create more training and employment opportunities for homeless people. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnortheasttrainingemployment020408.htm A cash boost of £27 million for social enterprises to deliver health and social care services has been announced by Government. The increase in funds will raise the amount of money available through the Department of Health’s [DoH] Social Enterprise Investment Fund to £100 million. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukhealthsocialcare020408.htm Action on Elder Abuse, [AEA] the national charity that focuses on the abuse of older people, has welcomed the recent announcement that Comic Relief and the Department of Health are to collaborate in further research into the nature of elder abuse, but has expressed the hope that this research will lead to tangible outcomes for older people. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukolderpeopleabuse020408.htms The Mental Health Foundation has published a study showing problem anger is left untackled in the UK, despite widespread concern about aggression, family breakdown and physical and mental health problems linked with anger. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukphysicalmentalhealthfamilies250308.htm In response to the announcement by the Government of back to work tests for those on incapacity benefits, Kathryn Hill, director of mental health programmes for the Mental Health Foundation, said: “More than one–third of people on incapacity benefits have mental health problems. Forcing them to jump through more bureaucratic hoops will only cause them greater distress and do nothing to help them get back to work, which is what the vast majority want. There’s also little point forcing people into unsustainable employment merely to meet Government targets. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukincapacitybenefitstests180308.htm A new psychological service has been launched across Nottinghamshire County Teaching Primary Care Trust [PCT] for people experiencing mild to moderate anxiety and depression. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnottinghamshireanxietydepressionccbt100308.htm A Charter for Mental Health for people living in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, setting out what should be expected from the services that provide mental health support and care was launched recently. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandleicesterleicestershirerutlandmentalhealthcharter180308.htm The Great Yarmouth and Waveney Primary Care Trust [PCT] provides Great Yarmouth and Waveney residents with health information and opening times of medical services during the Easter period. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandgreatyarmouthwaveneypct170308.htm Patients and NHS organisations in the North West are beginning to feel the benefits of an England–wide investment in new information technology [IT]. New systems and services are being implemented to help the NHS provide better, safer care for patients by improving the way information is stored and shared. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnorthwestnhspatientsit140308.htm A new project called The Joy of Food aimed at improving the eating habits and nutrition levels of young people in Norfolk is being launched on Friday 14 March 2008. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnorfolkhealtheatingnutrition130308.htm A state–of–the–art hospital has opened in Rochford, Essex, with over 100 beds available to care for people with mental health needs in a modern and therapeutic environment. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandessexrochfordhospital130308.htm Cardiac patients are joining sedentary people who wish to become more active in a programme that is cutting hospital readmissions and improving quality of life. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/walespatientsactive040308.htm Major reforms of health and social care should put the needs of patients first, according to Northern Ireland Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey. He recently outlined his proposals for a smaller, more sharply focused department, with a common services organisation to provide a range of support functions. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/northernirelandhealthsocialcarepatients040308.htm Leaders of more than 30 healthcare professional bodies came together recently to sign a ground–breaking agreement to advise patients of the important role work plays in health. The consensus statement, developed in partnership with the National Director for Health and Work, Dame Carol Black, comes ahead of her radical review of the health of the working age population, which is due out later this month. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukhealthcareworkgp120308.htm Further sampling has been carried out by the Health Protection Agency [HPA] as part of continued investigations into anti–viral drug susceptibility against seasonal flu viruses currently circulating in Europe. Latest figures show that approximately 14 per cent of the A viruses in Europe have shown resistance to the anti–viral drug, Oseltamivir. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukeuropedrugs040308.htm Almost £315 million is to be spent on services for older people and children by Cambridgeshire County Council from next year, up from £292 million in the current year. In addition, schools across the county will receive a further £295 million of ring fenced funding. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandcambridgeshireolderpeoplechildren290208.htm Northumbria Healthcare's maternity units in Northumberland and North Tyneside are ranked in the top five in England for the quality of care they give to mothers and their babies, according to a recent Healthcare Commission report. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnorthumbriatynesidemothersbabies280208.htm A new website has been launched to provide help for people with mental health needs living in the London Borough of Westminster. The website, www.go4mentalhealth.com, provides a range of advice, links, an activities directory and latest news centred on living in Westminster. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandlondonwestminsterwebsite280208.htm Children with emotional or behavioural problems will benefit from extra support and guidance as part of a new early intervention programme to be introduced in schools in the London Borough of Merton. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandlondonmertonchildenbehaviouralproblems280208.htm Football teams from Fulbourn in Cambridgeshire have new kit and match balls, thanks to the help of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandcambridgepeterboroughnhsfootball270208.htm The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a UK charity dedicated to the development of all young people. We help young people from every possible background to develop the attitudes and skills they need to succeed in life. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsdukeofedinburghsaward.htm Angered by witnessing their loved ones struggle on a pittance, people up and down the country are signing–up to Age Concern’s ‘Dignity not PEAnuts’ campaign. Government are planning to 'up' the Personal Expenses Allowance [PEA] by a mere 70p in April – just enough to buy two first class stamps and 15p less than last year. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsageconcern.htm At last year’s NME Awards, Beth Ditto and Jarvis Cocker teamed–up to perform a cover of Heaven 17’s classic song ‘Temptation’. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsshelter.htm Community Cash Awards are grants of up to £5,000 to help young people set–up a project that will improve life in a local community in the UK. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorstheprincestrust.htm The recent unrest in Kenya has far–reaching impacts. Amongst the silent victims is BTCV's partner in Kenya – the Colobus Trust – an innovative organisation working for the conservation, preservation and protection of primates, in particular the Angolan Black and White Colobus monkey [Colobus angolensis palliates]. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsbtcv.htm Crisis loans are interest free loans paid by the social fund. As the name implies crisis loans are intended to meet urgent needs when no other help is available. They are designed to provide cash help in an emergency or a disaster. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorswelfareweasel.htm A blueprint for reducing obesity in the North West and enabling children and families to make healthier lifestyle choices will be launched at the Bridgewater Hall, Manchester, today [Wednesday 6 February 2008]. At the same time, indicators for child and young people’s health for each local authority in the North West will also be published in an online tool at: www.nwph.net/cayphi. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandmanchesterchildrenfamilies060208.htm By adopting the theme ‘From Margins to Mainstream: Mental Health and Wellbeing – it’s everybody’s business’, the organisers intend to underline that mental health promotion and the prevention of mental disorders have moved away from the margins of the health agenda. They are now firmly established in mainstream research, policy and practice. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorswfmh.htm A total of 17 organisations, each providing services for children, young people and their families working within the health and social services sector, will be allocated cash from the Children and Families Organisation Grant [CFOG]. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/waleschildrenfamilies040208.htm Commonly held assumptions linking obesity in children to poor social conditions have been shattered by the results of a comprehensive Norfolk study, it was revealed today [Monday 4 February]. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnorfolkchildrenobesity040208.htm Solihull NHS Care Trust are looking for people who wish to become more active in the management of their physical and mental health as 'expert patients'. The Trust want to hear from people with long–term health conditions, and carers of people with long–term health conditions, to help them achieve as much control over their physical and emotional wellbeing as possible. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandwestmidlandssolihullhealthcare040208.htm Men in the South West of England aged 65 years can expect to live another 17 years and women another 20 years according to a new report. This is the highest life expectancy for both men and women in England. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandsouthwestolderpeople040208.htm Increasing demand on the A and E Unit at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, currently serving 25–30 patients each hour, has been identified as a major local health economy issue, says the North Staffordshire Primary Care Trust [PCT]. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnorthstaffordshireprimarycare310108.htm Making it easier for people to follow a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a healthy weight, is the key to how the NHS in the North West and its partners plan tackle health inequalities in the region. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnorthwestlifestyles310108.htm Setting an historic precedent, councillors from every local authority in London have come together to consider proposals for the future of the capital's health services. These could mean a new look for local hospitals. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandlondonhospitalsservices310108.htm You might be forgiven for thinking that for nature to provide the answer to our health and wellbeing, the deepest darkest jungles must be explored or highest mountains climbed to obtain rare species of fruit or exotic herbs. It’s a warming thought that the berries from our own British hedgerows contain common plants with valuable health–giving properties used in medicine today. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsweledauk.htm The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence issued guidance on the 23 January 2008 on promoting and creating built or natural environments that encourage and support physical activity. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsnice.htm It's that time of year again when colds seem to be ever present. In fact we are now in the peak of the season, which normally lasts from December to March. These generally minor infections tend to affect our nose, throat, sinuses and airways. Although we feel unwell, our bodies will most likely fight off the infection without the need for medical intervention and symptoms should not last more than a week. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsbupa.htm A new mental health NHS Foundation Trust has been created in the east region – Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust. The newly granted specialist status, from 1 February 2008, brings with it local accountability and flexibility to tailor services effectively for people’s needs. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsnorfolkandwaveney.htm Patients in Darlington will need to telephone a new number for out–of–hours urgent care services from Friday 1 February 2008, according to the Darlington Primary Care NHS Trust. From 1 February, patients who need urgent care but cannot wait until their GP surgery re–opens must telephone the out–of–hours urgent care service on: 01325 746322. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandnortheastgpsurgeries300108.htm The Leeds Institute of Health Sciences seminar is hosting an introduction to the Academic Unit of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences on 14 February 2008, 12.30 until 2pm, CT1.03/4, Charles Thackrah Building, Clarendon Road. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandyorkshirehumbertraining300108.htm Donations totalling £107,000 have been granted to Workwise [Suffolk] Ltd by Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales [£62,000] and The Rank Foundation [£45,000] over three years – to fund two salaries to continue the charity’s work. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandsuffolktraining300108.htm The organisers advise early registration to enter the Men’s Health Forum Scotland [MHFS] 10k for Men. The event, which will be held in Bellahouston Park on Father’s Day, Sunday 15 June 2008, is open to men aged 15 years or over, with family, individual, community and workplace team participation encouraged. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlandexercise300108.htm Shoppers across Fife gained advice and information on mental health issues at displays held across the Kingdom by Fife Employment Access Trust [FEAT]. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlandfifeemployment300108.htm Alzheimer Scotland is undertaking research into the level and quality of community care service for people with dementia. The organization is seeking the views and experiences of people who are caring for a person with dementia who is currently receiving, or would benefit from receiving, care services. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlandcommunitycare300108.htm Breathing Space Scotland, the freephone and web–based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety is calling on people to mark Breathing Space Day on 1 February 2008 as a time to take some time away from the business of modern–day living. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlanddepression300108.htm Northern Ireland is set to benefit from a significant package of measures to help people who need treatment and support for mental health and learning disability, cancer, heart disease and stroke and chronic disease. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/northernirelandmentalhealthsocialcare250108.htm A new partnership has been signed between the Northern Ireland Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety and Partners International Medical Services [Partners HealthCare], a major healthcare provider in the United States. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/northernirelandhealthcaretechnology250108.htm The Northern Ireland Executive has welcomed the announcement that Belfast is to become a new Centre of Excellence for research into complex public health issues, along with Newcastle, Cardiff, Cambridge and Nottingham. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/northernirelandbelfasthealthcentre250108.htm Health statistics for local areas in Northern Ireland have been made more accessible thanks to the launch of a new free access website at www.ninis.nisra.gov.uk http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/northernirelandhealthwellbeingwebsite250108.htm Improvements to care standards for nursing and residential care homes in Northern Ireland have been announced. The care standards pinpoint the minimum requirements which providers of services must achieve, and clarify the level of service care home residents can expect to receive. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/northernirelandresidentialcarehomes250108.htm A major review to improve the private rented sector has been announced by Government. With almost 2.6 million homes in England being rented from over half–a–million private landlords, the independent study will look at what problems tenants and landlords face and what works well in the sector. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukhousinglandlords250108.htm The Government has announced the 25 local authorities that will begin the Targeted Mental Health in Schools project. Each local authority and corresponding Primary Care Trusts will work with between three and six secondary schools, as well as their feeder or associated primary schools, to deliver better support for those children who are at risk or are already experiencing mental ill health. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukmentalhealthschools250108.htm From March Department for Work and Pensions [DWP] fraud investigators will use new powers to access data held by credit reference agencies to pinpoint benefit cheats who are living together but claiming to be single for benefit purposes. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukbenefitsfraud240108.htm Fifers in general are in good health with a fall in the number of deaths from heart disease and stokes according to a report by Fife’s director of Public Health, Dr Gina Radford. Her report for 2005–07 considers a range of issues about health and wellbeing, particularly lifestyle and life stage issues. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/scotlandfifelifestylewellbeing210108.htm A four–month–long campaign to dramatically reduce the number of falls and fractures experienced by older people has been launched in Hull. A partnership between Hull Teaching Primary Care Trust [PCT], Hull City Council and Age Concern, the Falls Prevention campaign offers to replace senior citizens’ worn out slippers with professionally–fitted ones, since one of the main causes of falls are shoes and slippers that do not fit properly. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandhullolderpeople210108.htm The North West Health Protection Agency [HPA] says seasonal flu levels have reached the point at which doctors are being advised to prescribe anti–viral drugs for it. Anyone who is entitled to a free flu jab on the NHS should have one now according to the HPA in Manchester. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/englandmanchesternhsdoctorsdrugs210108.htm A new system to pay for long–term care for older people which combines a clear–cut entitlement to care, with the cost of it shared between individuals and the state is badly needed in the UK, according to a report on the long term–care system entitled, The Future of Care Funding: Time for a Change. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/ukelderlycarecosts210108.htm Mind was delighted when, during the controversial Mental Health Bill’s final Parliamentary stages last year, the Government finally conceded to the demands of service users and introduced a right to advocacy in the legislation. Yet six months on, all is quiet. While plans for implementation of the 2007 Mental Health Act are racing ahead, advocacy is behind schedule. The Department of Health does not now expect statutory advocacy services to be in place for people treated under the Mental Health Act until, at the earliest, March 2009. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsmind.htm Getting up to his elbows in mud was not what Neil* had in mind when he was referred to his local Day Centre but that’s just what happened to him last autumn. Neil is part of a group of people attending a North Manchester Day Centre as part of their recovery from mental ill–health, and gardening was put to him as a beneficial skill to learn. “I had no idea whether I could do it, but it sounded interesting so I had a go,” comments Neil. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsstartmanchester.htm Dramatherapy is just one of the 350 different careers in the NHS. Although it is not as ‘famous’ as nursing or medicine, it is incredibly important to the service and the service users it helps everyday. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsnhscareers.htm Sometimes it’s difficult to understand how this issue has not been solved. Isn’t it self–evident that children and young people shouldn’t have to take on adult responsibilities for care? Surely it’s clear now that parents with mental health needs should be able to ask for, and receive parenting support? If there are over 50,000 young people [or 29 per cent of all young carers] looking after a family member with mental health needs, how can the issue be ignored? http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsprincessroyaltrustforcarers.htm Some councils and schools may be flouting the new tougher, mandatory School Admissions Code, according to the Government. The majority of schools' admissions policies comply with the Code – which rules out subjective arrangements, which penalise low–income families, or vulnerable children, with disabilities, special educational needs or in care. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukschools170108.htm People sentenced to community orders are not getting mental health treatment when they need it, according to research published by the Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukoffendersmentalhealthtreatment160108.htm The National Public Health Service for Wales [NPHS] has written to all GPs explaining that both oseltamivir and zanamivir are now recommended for use in line with the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence [NICE] guidance, in a move to combat the circulation of the current outbreak of flu. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedswalesgpflu160108.htm In response to the National Audit Office report called Compensating Victims of Violent Crime, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority [CICA] in Scotland says it welcomes the publication as a key contribution to the work already underway to improve its performance since, in 2006, it was recognised that the Authority’s service had declined and that major changes were needed. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsscotlandvictimscrime160108.htm The Government recently announced a multi–million pound face–lift to turn old facilities into new community hospitals and super surgeries. The new approach aims to provide a wide range of integrated primary care and community services. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandcommunityhospitals160108.htm Two employees of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust were highly commended in the National Positive Practice awards 2007. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandnhstrustawards160108.htm Improvements to diet could save 700,000 lives a year in Britain according to the Government’s Cabinet Office, whose Strategy Unit have looked at long–term UK food policy. The Unit’s interim paper concludes that urgent challenges go beyond obesity and says the critical issue is not how much people eat, but that they need to eat a better diet. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukfoodobesitydiet150108.htm The final phase of the Government's Pathways to Work programme to get people off incapacity benefit and into employment was recently announced by the Department of Work and Pensions [DWP]. Eight organisations were awarded contracts to deliver Pathways to Work in 16 Jobcentre Plus districts from April 2008 which completes the national roll–out across Great Britain. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukpathwaysworkbenefits150108.htm Over recent months the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency [MHRA] has seen continuing evidence of bad and dangerous practices across parts of the unlicensed herbal sector. All the cases reported have had a common theme: Adverse reactions or the potential for consumer harm. This has lead to the MHRA investigating and consequently finding serious examples of very poor practice. The MHRA is warning the public about some of these practices by highlighting some of the most recent cases. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsmedicinesandhealth.htm The Broads has huge problems that are at odds with an area equivalent in status to a National Park. It has many wildlife sites that are in poor condition; access is mostly by cars and boats burning fossil fuels; conflicts between wildlife and boating remain; freshwater wetlands are threatened by poor water quality, abstraction and rising sea levels. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsrspb.htm Moving On courses help Brian to rebuild his career, from staring death in the face to a future full of promise, 'battling' Brian Harmston has come a long way from the man who was given just months to live five–and–a–half years ago. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsshawtrust.htm Private and voluntary sector organisations will be paid to get the long–term jobless into long–term jobs, the Government recently announced. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukvoluntarysectorjobs141207.htm The Suffolk Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust has developed new ways of working to provide better healthcare for people in the county whose mental ill health is further exacerbated by a drug or alcohol problem – or vice versa. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandsuffolkpct141207.htm An 18–year-old printer from Claydon in Suffolk has become the first person to undertake a specialist apprenticeship in machine printing under a new training partnership. Dan Bullard, who has worked for Five Star Printing in Great Blakenham, near Ipswich, for just over two years, has completed his first apprenticeship there and is now embarking on an advanced apprenticeship scheme. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandsuffolkwork141207.htm The first stop was the Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment team which assesses patients brought in as an emergency and makes a decision whether home treatment can be offered as an alternative to admission to hospital. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandcambridgeshirecameo141207.htm By taking part in Homes for Wildlife, you can make a real difference to their fortunes and help to reverse the declines. We hope that thousands of you will be able to make your homes and gardens richer in wildlife by following the simple wildlife gardening advice that we provide. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07features101207.htm It is the old catch-22: You can not get the job without the experience. And you can not get the experience without the job. The Prince's Trust has found a way around it, with a series of short courses called Get Into. They could get you into work before you know it. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorstheprincestrust.htm More young British people are taking part in constructive out of school activities than ever before, new statistics from The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award reveal. In defiance of popular media perception portraying teenagers as ‘hoodies’ and ‘lazy’, participation in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award increased last year. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsdukeofedinburghsaward.htm The seventh National Conference on Mental Health and Ageing was held at the John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, in Norfolk in November. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsnorfolkandwaveney.htm Depending on your situation you may qualify for help with your travel costs to attend a NHS appointment. This does not have be at a hospital it could include appointments at a community–based centers. The treatment needs to be arranged by your consultant. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorswelfareweasel.htm The BTCV Green Gym® is a scheme that inspires you to improve your health and the environment at the same time. It offers you the opportunity to 'work out' in the open air through local, practical environmental or gardening work. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/07contributorsbtcv.htm The Fife Employment Access Trust [FEAT] has been awarded Big Lottery funding over five years to deliver the ‘Journey to Work’ programme and support people with experience of mental ill health to find and sustain work, as well as develop a range services aimed at Fife employers. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsscotlandfifedisabilitieswork311007.htm A new European Social Fund [ESF] programme for England backed by £2 billion from the European Union, was recently launched by Government. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukworkdisabilities301007.htm Norfolk Primary Care Trust [PCT] is to transfer the running of its learning disabilities services to a new provider, Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust by April 2008. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandnorfolkpctcaredisabilities291007.htm Patients and carers who feel they may be entitled to claim back from the NHS money they paid for health care are being encouraged to submit their claims before the end of November 2007. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandnorfolkpatientscarers221007.htm The Lister Hospital in Stevenage was the focus of attention when its Health Shuttle was nominated as the best in its class in this year’s National Transport Awards. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandeasthertfordshirestevenagetransport181007.htm The Prime Minister’s recent announcement that every hospital in the land should undergo a deep cleaning process, had already been anticipated by Southampton General Hospital which is now well on the way with a ward–by–ward campaign that has been scheduled to run from September to the end of the year. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandsouthsouthampton181007.htm Age Concern has released new statistics which they describe as ‘worrying’ which claim that some 60 per cent of those pensioners who are on lower incomes do not know how to claim money to which they are entitled but of which they remain in ignorance. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandagebenefits181007.htm The Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has carried out a full refurbishment of Catherine House, which provides drug treatment for the people of Central Cheshire, including harm reduction, substitute prescription and a needle and syringe exchange service. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandcheshirenhscrewedrugs181007.htm Gloucestershire Primary Care Trust has approved plans to help smokers in need of non–urgent operations to ‘give up’ before being referred by their GP. The policy is designed, says the Trust, to support smokers in their efforts to quit while the NHS itself has stressed that any policy would not apply to patients being treated for cancer or who require other forms of urgent treatment, or if their doctor advises that exclusion is required. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsreportsenglandgloucestershireprimarycaregp181007.htm The recent publication by Lord Darzi of his interim report on Our NHS, Our Future review has been broadly welcomed by the King’s Fund whose chief executive, Niall Dickson, stresses the importance of engaging with clinical staff and patients as against a too rigid adherence to central directives. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukreportnhs191007.htm The opening speech in the recent World Congress on Men’s Health in Vienna was given by Alan White, chair of Men’s Health Forum and concentrated on the significance of social factors in premature deaths from cancer in men. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukworldmenshealth191007.htm A child obesity programme, Mind, Exercise, Nutrition… Do it [MEND] has been set–up by Wandsworth Council in three centres to focus on obesity among the 7–10-year old and to offer ways and means of preventing or tackling the problems through two weekly sessions run by skilled trainers. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsgreaterlondonwandsworthchildobesity181007.htm Across the country 11 pilot projects have been started to give youngsters the opportunity to stay on in care homes when they reach the age of 16. Among these is the London Borough of Merton where the Council is to try to determine the needs of young people, of whom there are currently 27, and to give them a say in whether they are to become independent now or stay on until they reach their eighteenth birthday. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsgreaterlondonyoungsterscare181007.htm "Violent and cruel behaviour against children is never acceptable or defensible and is made even worse when it is handed out by people specifically entrusted by society with the daily care and welfare of other people's children. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandchildrenviolence171007.htm The technological revolution of the 20th century has led to weight gain becoming inevitable for most people, because our bodies and biological make–up are out–of–step with our surroundings, says the latest report from Foresight, the Government's futures think–tank. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukobesity171007.htm New Department for Work and Pensions figures show employment is just over 29,000,000, the number of people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance is down by nearly 13,000 and the number of vacancies stand at 669,000. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukemployment171007.htm A new social housing watchdog that will crack–down on registered social landlords in England who are giving tenants a poor service, such as long waits for repairs, is being established as an independent, standalone body, the Government has announced. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsuksocialhousing171007.htm Under the Quality and Outcomes Framework [QOF] introduced in 2004, GP practices are rewarded for the results they achieve for their patients, where the doctors, nurses and staff of each practice work as a team to provide high quality care. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsnorthernirelandgppatients171007.htm “Access to health service dentistry in Northern Ireland has become a growing problem in certain parts of the country,” said Health Minister Michael McGimpsey speaking recently in Ballymena. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsnorthernirelandballymenahealth161007.htm Robert Dixon has been appointed to serve as a non–executive director on the Board of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandcambridgeshirementalhealth1610071.htm A welcome drop in both male and female mortality rates, which was reported by the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry recently, point to the development of continued improvements in cancer care services, said Health Minister Michael McGimpsey. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsnorthernirelandmalefemalehealth121007.htm Two friends from Usk in Monmouthshire have successfully tackled a sponsored climb of Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc, and raised over £23,000 for the Royal Gwent Hospital and Cancer Research. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsreportswalesmonmouthshirecancer121007.htm Interested parties have until 8 November to submit their views on the Gwent action plan for mental health race equality. The Gwent Healthcare NHS Trust has worked in partnership with local health boards, local authorities and the voluntary sector to prepare the plan which will be monitored by Health Inspectorate Wales. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedswalesgwentmentalhealthcaretrust121007.htm Results from studies of air quality carried out by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health in Wales before and after the smoking ban came into force, suggest that there has been 'a marked improvement' in air quality, reports the Welsh Assembly Government. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedswaleshealthnhs121007.htm During Mental Health Week physiotherapy staff at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital [REH] will help to raise awareness to the links between our mental health and our physical health. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsscotlandhealthcheckmentalwellbeing111007.htm A clear commitment to the welfare of Scottish war veterans with mental illness has been made by the Minister for Public Health, Shona Robinson. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsscotlandwelfarewarvetransmentalillness111007.htm The results of the third–run of a survey which was first commissioned five years ago and which took place in 2006, have recently been published, this time with additional help of a new tool, The Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsscotlandwellbeingsurvey111007.htm A strategy document published earlier this year [2007], Scotland’s Looked After Children and Young People – We Can and Must Do Better, has been acted upon by the Scottish Government which is to distribute £2.5 million among the country’s 32 councils to enable them to fulfil their roles as 'corporate parents’ to children in care. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsscotlandchildrenyoungpeople111007.htm The Men’s Health Forum has urged the chief executive officer of the Human Rights Commission to press ahead urgently with the implementation of the gender equality duty by NHS primary care trusts. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukmenshealthhumanrightsprimarycaretrusts111007.htm New Routes Refugee Awareness Training in Norwich provides training for agencies and local service providers that come into contact with asylum seekers, refugees and other members of Norfolk's new communities. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandnorfolknorwichregugeestraining111007.htm As the Government announced that funding will rise to £170 million a year by 2010/11 for its Improving Access to Psychological Therapies programme, five national mental health charities joined together to welcome the Secretary of State for Health’s commitment to ensure all GPs in England can offer their patients psychological therapies within six years. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandgppatientstherapies111007.htm For 60 years the services given to the over 50s in Bolton has developed from its humble beginnings in a wooden hut in Moor Lane, then known as the 'Bolton Old People’s Welfare Committee', have developed into a modern branch of Age Concern offering an impressive portfolio. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsgreatermanchesterboltonolderpeople091007.htm The next edition of the regular newsletter issued by the Tameside Carers Centre is due out in November, and by joining the Carers Register [they promise not to sell you anything] you can keep up–to–date with changes that could affect you or a carer whom you know. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandgreatermanchestercarers091007.htm A student mental health team has been set–up at Southampton University by Hampshire Partnership NHS Trust, one which is independent of the university. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandsouthsouthamptonmentalhealth081007.htm The 'Party in the Park' took place recently at the Paddington Recreation Ground in London. The annual event combines a fun run and fayre to promote the range of mental health services offered in Westminster. The services are provided mainly by the Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, but also by voluntary organisations that include Westminster Mind, St Mungo, London Cyrenians and Thamesreach. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsenglandlondoncentralandnorthwestlondonnhsfoundationtrust081007.htm A new Youth People Directorate has been established at the Department for Children, Schools and Families to provide various help and support to young people – including steps to prevent them getting into trouble and encouraging them to have respect for their community. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukchildrenfamilies081007.htm The Department of Health has announced the names of fourteen organisations appointed to offer support services to the NHS through a new agreement, known as the Framework for procuring External Support for Commissioners [FESC]. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthrssnewsfeedsukfamilieschildren051007.htm The opinion of the influential Confederation of British Industry [CBI] on the family doctor service is that it is 'outdated and rigid, placing an unnecessary burden on employers and businesses, resulting in millions of lost work days and affecting people’s health', according to a Men’s Health UK report. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandfamilydoctors051007.htm Students at Darlington College in the north east now have access to a wide–range of healthcare advice and treatment without the need of referral by a GP, thanks to a three–way partnership set–up by Darlington Primary Care Trust, the Denmark Street Practice and Darlington’s Teenage Pregnancy Partnership Board. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandnortheastdarlingtonstudents041007.htm Volunteers in The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in London with an active interest in mental health are urgently needed to work as befrienders to people with long–term mental health needs. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandgreaterlondonserviceusers041007.htm The problem of ageism, the abuse, neglect, or discrimination against the elderly, is to become the subject of a film produced in the London area by Age Concern, who point out that they cannot produce a valid, crusading documentary without the active help of those who have experienced the problem or who have become aware of it through the experiences of friends or relatives. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandgreaterlondonelderly041007.htm As from the beginning of October the weekly earnings limit on Carer’s Allowance has risen to £95, a small but significant increase which has been welcomed by Carers Northern Ireland. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsnorthernirelandcarers041007.htm A health survey which will provide the most detailed information ever seen on the numbers of overweight and obese children in England has been carried out by Norfolk Primary Care Trust [PCT] in the county with more than 12,000 children taking part. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandnorfolkpctobesity041007.htm Northamptonshire County Council’s drive to improve healthy eating in schools has resulted in a healthy increase, no less than 600, in the numbers of children opting for free school meals. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandnorthamptonshirechildren041007.htm The Opal Project, which was founded in 2003 by two Northamptonshire students, Laura and Carrie, who had themselves experienced the trauma of self–harming, has grown steadily, has its own website, and now offers an information pack for parents and teachers who may need support. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandnorthhamptonshireselfharm0410071.htm A new exhibition entitled, 'Testimony: Inside Stories of Mental Health Care', runs from 6–20 October 2007 at the Mitchell Library, North Street, Glasgow. Admission to the exhibition is free and includes interactive displays, original artworks and short documentaries. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsscotlandglasgowserviceusers0410071.htm Patients of South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust [PCT], one of the largest in the country, are being urged to check their eligibility for continuing long–term care before 30 November 2007, to comply with the retrospective review system initiated by the Department of Health. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandsouthstaffordshirepctcare0410072.htm Children and their families are offered a welcome by Alder Hey Hospital in the form of a cheerful booklet designed to allay the worries one always feels when entering a hospital, probably for the first time. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandmerseysideliverpoolchildren0410071.htm Norfolk Primary Care Trust [PCT] is to move 250 of its St Andrew’s House–based staff to a new, three–storey office complex at Broadland Business Park, in Thorpe St Andrew, Norwich. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandnorfolknorwichpct0110071.htm A grant of £29,000 from Communities Scotland has enabled former BBC journalist David Eyre to acquire and refurbish a derelict building in Glasgow’s Southside and start–up a newspaper which is designed to help youngsters train as journalists, and one student has already had a story published in a national newspaper. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsscotlandglasgowg41journalists0210071.htm A campaign to recruit 10,000 voluntary community sports coaches in 70 of the most deprived areas of the country has been launched by Government. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsukcommunitysports2509071.htm A one–time heroin user from Oldham who now acts as an inspirational counsellor to hundreds of people trying to kick–the–habit has been nominated for a top Government award. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsukgreatermanchesteroldhamvolunteer2509071.htm New research in the UK reveals that people's perceptions of ethnic minority women in the workplace are lagging behind the reality. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsukethnicwomen2509071.htm Two former specialist health units providing assessment and treatment for adults with learning disabilities in Peterborough have merged and will reopen on 25 September 2007 following complete refurbishment. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandcambridgeshirepeterborough2409071.htm Moriston Hospital in Swansea has its dedicated team of infection control nurses to thank for a dramatic reduction in infection rates among kidney patients undergoing haemodialysis after a three–year project, and although this does not have a direct bearing on other infections, such as MRSA, a pattern has been set which can ultimately affect even these hospital–based health risks. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewswalesswansea2409071.htm As an integral part of the recently announced drive to significantly reduce hospital infection rates, a leaflet: How you can help us prevent and control infection in hospitals, has been published which will be distributed throughout the Province’s hospitals, encouraging staff and visitors to clean their hands on entering wards and providing advice for patients on cleanliness and the prevention of infection. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsnorthernirelandgovernment2409071.htm Knowes Housing Association, with the backing of Communities Scotland’s Wider Role Fund, has set–up a healthy eating café in Faifley which provides healthy eating schemes for youngsters who would otherwise be unable to gain work experience. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsscotlandclydebank2009071.htm Health checks for carers, which will include blood pressure checks and influenza jabs, will be carried out on the first Thursday of each month at Withington Community Hospital. Appointments will be at half–hourly intervals from 12 midday until 4.00 pm. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandnorthwestgreatermanchester2009071.htm The number of ‘Dignity Champions’ in the north east of England, currently standing at 170, is the highest total in the country where the grand total amounts to 1,000 individuals whose aim in life is to enhance the dignity and respect of the elderly. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandnortheast2009072.htm The public health ‘portal' of Sunderland NHS is now speech–enabled by the addition of 'Browsealoud', a system for screen–reading software which is free to download. All you need to do is to click on and listen. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandnortheastsunderland2009071.htm The Commission for Social Care Inspection will publish three new bulletins on equality and diversity issues in its role of promoting equal opportunities, preventing discrimination and valuing diversity. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsengland2009071.htm Three public meetings are to be held by the Camden and Islington Mental Health and Social Care Trust, linked to a three–month consultation document on improvements to the way patients are cared–for in mental health beds, full details of which can be obtained from the website below. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandgreaterlondoncamdenandislington2009071.htm Although Bristol Mind moved offices a couple of months ago, the latest information is that the new telephone numbers are not yet available. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandwestcountrybristol2009071.htm Forty “loyal and committed volunteers” at present work for the Salisbury District Hospital Stars Appeal fundraising campaign, according to David Cates, who is director of fundraising there. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandsoutheastwiltshiresalisbury2009071.htm Janet Dean, MP for Burton has had a lengthy relationship with Mind locally and spoke at the recently held conference in Uttoxeter on how mental health services can be sustained in rural communities in the long–term. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/mentalhealthnewsenglandeastmidlandsuttoxeter2009071.htm Fans and staff of Cambridge City Football Club [pictured] have put their support behind the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust’s Foundation Trust membership scheme. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/170907englandnewsreports2.htm One million pounds was originally provided to help disabled children and their families to enjoy short breaks this year. This has been increased by a further £1.54 million from the Welsh Assembly Government through CYMORTH. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/110907walesnewsreports2.htm Child trafficking is not usually considered to be a serious problem in Wales, but sufficient evidence has come to light to persuade the Deputy Health Minister, Gwenda Thomas, to launch a drive intended to raise awareness of the impact of child trafficking on the country and to study the procedures available to health practitioners in recognising and dealing with suspected cases. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/110907walesnewsreports1.htm Anyone who is looking for a career opportunity which will help deal with Scotland’s mental health issues, could do not better than log on to the Scottish Association for Mental Health [SAMH] website which offers help to those who experience mental ill health and associated issues, such as homelessness, addiction and social exclusion. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/110907scotlandnewsreports2.htm Funding for the next five years has been granted from the Lottery to the Fife Employment Access Trust to continue its ‘Journey to Work’ programme which gives support to those with experience of mental ill health. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/110907scotlandnewsreports1.htm Norfolk Primary Care Trust has published a consultation document on the future of mental health services for older people in central Norfolk. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/100907englandnewsreports2.htm The Annual Public Meeting of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust will be held on Wednesday 26 September 2007, at 6.30pm at Huntingdon Racecourse. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/100907englandnewsreports1.htm In response to the publication of World Health Organization [WHO] research into depression in The Lancet, Kathryn Hill, director of mental health programmes at the Mental Health Foundation, said: “We welcome the fact that an organisation as prestigious as the World Health Organization is calling for more attention to be paid to the devastating impact depression can have. It is also right that as economies and cultures continue to integrate that depression and mental health in general are considered as urgent global issues. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/100907uknewsreports1.htm Nearly £30,000 in fraudulent benefit payments are to be recovered following investigative work, including a case where a 29 year–old woman claimed £11,000 in excess by not declaring that she lived with a partner. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/060907northernirelandnewsreports2.htm The North West Development Office of the Department for Social Development has awarded funding amounting to £3 million to improve four disadvantaged areas of Derry: Triax, Outer North, Outer West and Waterside. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/060907northernirelandnewsreports1.htm The Scottish Association for Mental Health [SAMH] is presenting a conference at the Radisson Hotel, Glasgow on Tuesday 23 October which will be chaired by Trisha Goddard, TV presenter and patron of MIND. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/060907scotlandnewsreports1.htm Southwark Health and Social Care is to pilot the first Electronic Prescription Service in London, and is one of only five Primary Care Trusts [PCT] in the country to implement this service. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/050907englandnewsreports8.htm Half a million case notes are now in the care of an electronic system which was recently inaugurated at Leighton Hospital, Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Trust, of which some 5,500 are in use every week. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/050907englandnewsreports7.htm A declaration that Salford Primary Care Trust [PCT] has complied with all the core quality standards set by the Department of Health has been submitted to the Healthcare Commission. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/050907englandnewsreports6.htm Beverley Sharrocks is the assistant catering manager at the Royal Boulton Hospital and has been proclaimed this year’s winner of the Sandra Heyes Memorial Award which was established in 1997. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/050907englandnewsreports5.htm Earls House Hospital in Durham was the birthplace of a new and hard–hitting campaign against mental health stigma, in a joint operation between the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys and the Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Trusts. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/050907englandnewsreports4.htm The dedicated website set–up earlier this year by Age Concern in Sheffield hosts information of interest to every elderly person in the region and has already provide its worth to hundreds of visitors to the site. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/050907englandnewsreports3.htm Buckinghamshire County Council has linked–up with Oxfordshire and Milton Keynes to offer a website specifically designed for carers and care workers and their employers which provides useful information on training, funding and legislation relevant to their needs. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/050907englandnewsreports2.htm The Bristol Mind Independent Mental Capacity Advocate [IMCA] service provides an independent advocate to support and represent people facing certain significant decisions, particularly those relating to long–term accommodation moves or serious medical treatment. In certain circumstances, IMCA advocates may represent and support people subject to care reviews or involved in adult protection proceedings. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/050907englandnewsreports1.htm The Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Bill, currently going through Parliament, includes plans to replace Patient Forums with Local Involvement Networks [LINks]. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/300807uknewsreports3.htm Leading child abuse solicitors Abney Garsden McDonald plan to launch a new website aimed at providing legal help to the families of elderly people affected by abuse. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/300807uknewsreports2.htm Older persons across four continents will meet with their Governments on 1 October, UN International Day of Older Persons, under the banner of Age Demands Action, in the first–ever co–ordinated action of older persons to enact change. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/300807uknewsreports1.htm The Government has announced the opening of a £73 million Social Enterprise Investment Fund for health and social care. Applications for the money can now start, to set–up and build social enterprises that meet specific needs and provide services that will benefit local communities. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/290807uknewsreports1.htm Publishing its Final Report on the Mental Health Act, the 77–member Alliance said that the Act was much improved by Parliament but fails to modernise mental health law or to promote equality for people with mental health needs. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/140807uknewsreports1.htm From September the Great Yarmouth and Waveney Primary Care Trust [PCT] will deliver its key messages to members of the public in Lowestoft, Suffolk, with the help of community television. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/140807englandnewsreports1.htm A project has been set–up in Suffolk to boost the number of women with learning disabilities having smear tests. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/130807englandnewsreports2.htm Norfolk County Council are asking people living in the county for their views on the future of adult mental health day services provision. The Have your say on Adult Mental Health Day Services in Norfolk condensed document explains some of the findings, gathered over the past 18 months, and explores some of the options for improving day services. The document also gives readers the chance to express their views via a FREEPOST reply form. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/130807englandnewsreports1.htm The 'Moving People' campaign looks to change the culture of mental health in a ground–breaking bid to tackle the problem of mental health stigma and discrimination, aiming to reach some 30 million people across England. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/310707uknewsreports1.htm A report published by the Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland, says that hospital–based care for patients with severe dementia should be driven by patient need rather than resources. Older and Wiser presents findings from unannounced visits to 16 wards that provide long–term nursing care for people with dementia, across Scotland. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/240707scotlandnewsreports1.htm Mersey Care NHS Trust chairman Steve Hawkins took the issue of stigma in mental health from Liverpool to London recently. He chaired a debate on stigma at the NHS Confederation annual conference, where health leaders and senior managers gathered from around the UK at ExCeL London to explore some of the big issues affecting the NHS. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/240707englandnewsreports2.htm The Norfolk Mental Health Advocacy Service has published a series of leaflets offering its services in various languages, including Lithuanian, Mandarin, Polish, Portuguese, Russian and Turkish. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/240707englandnewsreports1.htm The National BME Mental Health Network are to hold a meeting in the Care Services Improvement Partnership [CSIP] Eastern Region on Tuesday 11 September 2007, 10am to 4pm. The event is the second of four 'rotating' meetings held across CSIP regions each year. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/180707englandnewsreports1.htm During the next two months a series of public meetings will be held by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust in their bid to become a Foundation Trust early in 2008. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/120707englandnewsreports1.htm Dr Belinda Lennox has been appointed as the head of research and development for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust with effect from 1 September 2007. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/110707englandnewsreports1.htm News that public attitudes towards people with mental health problems are less sympathetic today than in 1994 should concern anyone who wants to see a fairer, more productive society. It should also worry the Government, who have spent millions of pounds trying to tackle stigma and discrimination against those that live with a mental illness. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/100707uknewsreports2.htm The Princess Royal Trust for Carers invite you to the Great British Duck Race, which will take place on Sunday 2 September 2007, down a 1km stretch of the River Thames near Hampton Court Palace. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/100707uknewsreports1.htm When it comes to a therapeutic activity, drumming may not be the first thing to spring to mind, but according to one health professional at South Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust [SEPT] it really works. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/090707uknewsreports1.htm Scotland’s anti-bullying service, respectme, has recently launched a new website at: www.respectme.org.uk. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/040707scotlandnewsreports1.htm The META hotline telephone service provides various information for migrant workers in the eastern region of England. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/020707englandnewsreports1.htm In response to the National Audit Office report, Improving services and support for people with dementia, Andrew McCulloch, chief executive of the Mental Health Foundation said. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/040707uknewsreports1.htm In response to recommendations from the Scottish Needs Assessment Programme [SNAP] report on Child and Adolescent Mental Health [2003], HeadsUpScotland, the national project for children and young people’s mental health, has launched a website at: www.handsonscotland.co.uk, to increase the support for those working to improve children and young people's health. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/020707scotlandnewsreports2.htm Scottish Social Networks [SSN] has launched a new training pack for specialist organisations and individuals working with people who are vulnerable and socially excluded. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/020707scotlandnewsreports.htm A report by Professor Louis Appleby, the national clinical director for mental health called Breaking down barriers – the clinical case for change, has been welcomed by the Royal College of Psychiatrists UK. The report details the next stage of community–based services for those experiencing mental ill health. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/300607uknewsreports1.htm Whether at work or passing-by, people in Norwich city centre can take time–out and refresh themselves at the recently launched Charlie’s Juice and Smoothie Bar. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/290607englandnewsreports4.htm A garden project at an assessment and treatment facility in Essex for people with learning disabilities is to be officially opened on 4 July 2007. The project at Keats House, Billericay, has been undertaken to show that an improved patient environment benefits both patients and staff. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/290607englandnewsreports3.htm A new facility has opened in Thetford, Norfolk, to help local people with drug and alcohol problems. A drop–in service is available from 2pm-4pm, Monday to Friday for anyone requiring help, support and information relating to substance misuse. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/290607englandnewsreports2.htm The Norfolk Primary Care Trust [PCT] will hold a Board meeting in public on Tuesday 24 July 2007 from 10am to 12 noon in the John Jarrold Suite at the University of East Anglia Sportspark, Norwich to consider the response to the consultation on intermediate care services. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/290607englandnewsreports1.htm Greater Manchester–based Abney Garsden McDonald, a law firm that specialises in child abuse, has launched a new website at: www.abuselaw.co.uk which aims to provide access to information for child and adult survivors of physical, sexual and psychological abuse. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/270607uknewsreports1.htm This month [July] sees the launch of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust’s consultation to become a Foundation Trust in early 2008. Becoming a Foundation Trust will give local people a say in how they think mental health services should be developed. For the Trust, it means greater financial freedom to provide services that meet local needs. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/270607englandnewsreports1.htm A one–day event celebrating the mental health benefits of physical activity takes place on Parker’s Piece in Cambridge on Wednesday 18 July 2007. http://www.communicatormentalhealth.org/270607englandnewsreports2.htm