Community Development Worker Newsletter

Click HERE to see the Rethink Community Development Worker Newsletter

Signpost Kent News

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

Live It Well Launch Drop In

Hi,

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

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

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

We look forward to seeing you there!

Consultation on drug and alcohol guidance for schools

The Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) has opened consultation on new drug and alcohol guidance for schools.

Consultation closes 15th February 2010



Click here to read more:

http://www.alcoholpolicy.net/2009/11/consultation-on-drug-and-alcohol-guidance-for-schools-.html



Drugs: Guidance for Schools

http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/consultations/index.cfm?action=consultationDetails&consultationId=1673&external=no&menu=1

Consultation on drug and alcohol guidance for schools

The Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) has opened consultation on new drug and alcohol guidance for schools.

Consultation closes 15th February 2010



Click here to read more:

http://www.alcoholpolicy.net/2009/11/consultation-on-drug-and-alcohol-guidance-for-schools-.html



Drugs: Guidance for Schools

http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/consultations/index.cfm?action=consultationDetails&consultationId=1673&external=no&menu=1

Carers to be priortiy group for swine flu jab

The Chief Medical Officer, Sir Liam Donaldson has said that carers would a priority group for vaccinations against swine flu. This is to protect the welfare of those being cared for who may be at risk if their carer falls ill.

To read more click here:

http://www.carersuk.org/Newsandcampaigns/News/1258713040

NHS Staff to transform patient care

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

To read more click here:

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

Dignity in care training pack

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

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

Anxiety mistaken for flu!

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

Read the press release here:

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

Credits for Caring Scheme

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

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

Sainsbury Centre welcomes government plan to implement Bradley report

Sainsbury Centre welcomes government plan to implement Bradley report

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

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

Funding support

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

CASE Kent provides:

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

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

Health Secretary clarifies Government position on disability benefits

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

Click HERE to read full statement

NEWSFLASH - NEW MENTAL HEALTH WEBSITE

NEWSFLASH - NEW MENTAL HEALTH WEBSITE

http://www.amimad.org/

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

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

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

NEWSFLASH - NEW MENTAL HEALTH WEBSITE

NEWSFLASH - NEW MENTAL HEALTH WEBSITE

http://www.amimad.org/

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

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

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

World Mental Health Day Event

CANTERBURY AND COASTAL RETHINK CARERS' SUPPORT GROUP WMHD EVENT

We still have a few places for carers and service users at our World Mental Health Day event at the Canterbury Umbrella at 7.30 pm on Tuesday 20 October. The Kent Circus School will be giving a short performance then will run a juggling workshop. Come along to watch or join in. It will be a fun evening and at the very least will make you smile. Places are FREE but must be booked

Please contact

Chris and Cheryl Ives
Joint Voluntary Coordinators
Canterbury and Coastal Rethink Carers' Support Group

01227 760707

Get Involved - New Horizons Consultation Event FREE!

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

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

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

Movie Release - The Soloist

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

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

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

Canterbury Umrella AGM

The Canterbury Umbrella Centre is holding it's Annual General Meeting on the 8th of October at the Umbrella Centre, St Peter's Place, Canterbury 4.00pm for a 4.15pm start.

Rethink Survey - Your Voice Counts!

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

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

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

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

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


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

Thank you.

Time to Change

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

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


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

Well Being For All

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

A week long exhibition in Margate Library

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

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

Great Porchlight Website

Have you seen the Porchlight website?

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

Their website is great - take a look HERE!

New Singing Groups - Starting 21st September

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

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

See below for all the starting dates:

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


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


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


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



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



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



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


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

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

New Horizons Consultation

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you have trouble registering please contact dale.park@idea.gov.uk

Some information on the 1 in 4 Theatre Group

A bit of history...
The 1 in 4 Theatre Group was started up with Lottery Funding in 2007-08 with the aim of creating a project for World Mental Health Day. The project, a play called Transitions, was developed by Mustard Seed service users with the help of 2 Drama Teachers. We performed at the Mind the Gap Festival in October 08, at our own World Mental Health Day event and at Canterbury College and have created a DVD documenting our efforts.

What do we offer?
We firmly believe in the therapeutic value of the arts in general and drama in particular. We offer a safe and supportive environment in which people who suffer from mental health problems have the chance to express themselves creatively and learn dramatic skills with the aim to improve wellbeing. We also aim to raise awareness among the general public.


What, Where, When
We meet every Wednesday morning for two hours. The group is based in Canterbury within walking distance of the city centre. Our meetings are informal and refreshments are provided.

Referrals
You will need to be referred to join the group. Referrals can either be arranged by your GP or care coordinator, or you can get in touch with us directly through Udi Perry at Chaucer Homecare Ltd on 01227 451834.

Who’s in charge?
The group is facilitated by Justine Staley, who has extensive dramatic and educational experience. However, the 1 in 4 Theatre Company is ultimately owned by the members of the group themselves, and everyone’s input is equally valid. This gives members the chance to try out various roles, to learn new skills and to take on responsibilities, but without any pressure.



Funding
Finding sources of funding and constructing bids for that funding is now an integral part of the group’s process and allows us to decide how the money is used. The current year’s funding has come to us from the East Kent Primary Care Trust from their Promoting Mental Health and Wellbeing fund.

Rethink Survey - Your Voice Counts!

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

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

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

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

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


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

Thank you.

Credit Crunch Stressline

Hi,

The 'credit crunch stressline' has been launched, further information can be found on the following website:-

www.nhs.uk/LiveWell/Onabudget/Pages/Creditcrunchstresshelp.aspx

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

Hi,

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

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

Chaucer Homecare AGM

Chaucer Homecare Ltd are holding their AGM on Monday 28th September, 6.30pm - 8.00pm at Webb’s Garden St Martin’s Hospital Littlebourne Road Canterbury CT1 1AZ.

All are welcome and light refreshments will be provided.

INHERITANCE PLANNING

Hi,

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

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

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

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

Personalisation Event

Hi,

Click HERE to view information about a personalisation event that is happening in November, around service user involvement in the personalisation agenda!

Care Quality Commission, Mental Health Strategy

Hi,

Click HERE to view the consultation document from the Care Quality Commission for Mental Health Strategy. Please be aware that you need to put your views forward by the 7th Sept!

Lets Get Started!

The Lets Get Started project is a new project at Chaucer Homecare. Starting earlier this year, Lets Get Started has been organising 16 taster sessions of various sports and social activities for groups of 6-8 adults (applicants must be 18 years old or over). Each week offers 2 to 3 new and exciting activities to take part in. The project is completely free to join for adults of all ages and abilities.

The project is not suitable for anyone who is in an acute phase of crisis as there is only one worker accompanying the group at all times and they will have to concentrate on the needs of the group as a whole rather than deal with on individual who cannot or will not engage with the activity or group.

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Football, swimming, tennis, badminton, circus school, health walks, T'ai Chi, yoga, art, drama, cinema, pottery, supper club, book club, music group and cookery/lunch club.

The project allows is members to meet new people while trying new and exciting things, which in turn improves their social inclusion, self esteem as well as their physical and mental health. The hope is that the group members will choose to continue taking part in activities in their own time.

Many studies have proved that exercise and social inclusion are very important in improving feelings of anxiety and stress. Exerting yourself allows adrenaline to flow around the body which eventually helps to improve thought patterns and physical performance.

The project with aim to enable members to:

• Become more involved with the local community
• Live more independently
• Improve self esteem
• Improve physical fitness

Some benefits of regular exercise include:

• Improving your mood
• Sleeping well
• Reducing tension, feelings of stress or fatigue and give you more energy
• Improving your self image
• Increasing motivation

The project also promotes independence as group members must make their own way to and from the activities. Previous group members have agreed that this course has increased their confidence, motivation and given them a great reason to get out and about within the community.

If you are interested in taking part in this exciting new venture then get in contact with Ben Taylor or Udi Perry on 01227 451834 and we will send you an introduction pack including an application form.

Some interesting information from Dave Woodward

Dear all,

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

Dave Woodward

Films aim to tackle stigma of mental illness

10th August 2009 Mental Health Foundation

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

Full Press Release

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

Six out of 10 suffer in silence with mental illness

10th August 2009 - Mental Health Foundation

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

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

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

Some 37% were also ashamed and 29% embarrassed.

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

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

Piece of Mind Creations - Herne Bay

The Umbrella Centre of Herne Bay is holding an exhibition and sale of work produced by its members from:

Tuesday 3rd November until Saturday 7th of November at the Bay Art Gallery 47A William Street Herne Bay


The exhibition is entitled 'Piece of Mind Creations' and will feature an eclectic mix of art, woodwork and crafts.

This is an ideal opportunity for you to buy your Christmas presents whilst supporting a charity which supports people with mental health and/or learning difficulties.

For further information phone 01227 370 200 or email lynnguthrie@umbrella.plus.com

5 Year Mental Health Strategy

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

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

Get involved at:

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

Welcome to your new blog!

Hi!

Welcome to your new blog!

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

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

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

Get blogging!