A psychological therapy service that supports patients with complex mental health needs has been shortlisted for a national award.
The Transitions Psychology Service run by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) has been shortlisted for an HSJ Award in the category of Mental Health Innovation of the Year.
The Essex-wide service offers intensive, long-term support to people with personality disorders who are continuing their recovery in the community following lengthy periods of care on mental health inpatient wards.
The team of psychologists and psychotherapists work with patients who have experienced trauma to increase stability, mental wellbeing and quality of life and reduce the likelihood of re-admission to inpatient care.
Dr Esther Kiehl, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and service lead, said: “Our support focuses on asking ‘what happened to you’ rather than ‘what’s wrong with you’, enabling patients to better manage their personal safety until they are in a position to enjoy more of their lives.
“Patient outcomes show that the likelihood of needing re-admission significantly decreases with the offer of integrative, person-centred, specialist trauma therapy.”
The HSJ Awards shine a light on the outstanding efforts and achievements of teams across the health and care sector that improve patient outcomes and make the best use of innovative technology to provide better services.
The Transitions Psychology Service was shortlisted from a ‘record breaking’ 1,456 entries across the national award scheme this year, the biggest in its 43-year history.
Dr Greg Wood, Clinical Director of Psychological Services at EPUT, said: “Our Psychological Services staff strive to provide the best possible care for
vulnerable service users and support the teams who provide care.
“Following our HSJ Workforce Initiative of the Year award last year, I am thrilled that another one of our teams been shortlisted again this year. I am particularly thrilled that it is a service that provides intensive work with some of our most distressed and complex patients who are trying to get back to their productive lives.”
Alex Green, Executive Chief Operating Officer at EPUT, added: “I’m delighted that the Transitions Psychology Service has been shortlisted for an HSJ Award – it is testament to the vital service the team provides in supporting patients with complex mental health needs.
“Whether in an inpatient or community setting, the service supports some of our most complex patients in their recovery, increasing their wellbeing, independence and improving quality of life.”
The winners will be announced at an award ceremony in London on 16 November this year.
