community development worker report 2014-2015 · community development worker report 2014-2015...

Community Development Worker Report 2014-2015 Making Pathways Clear in Mental Health

Kuldeep Singh Senior Community Development Worker

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‘‘I have really enjoyed attending the group, learning new things each week, meeting new

people and seeing them grow. I feel honoured to be part of the group.’’

Group Member from Pyari Sangat

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Contents 1. Executive Summary 4

2. Introduction 4

2.1 The Four Key Building Blocks of Community Development Work 5 2.2 Community Development Work 6

3. Working with Individuals 6 3.1 Referral Source 7 3.2 Ethnicity 7 3.3 Gender 8 3.4 Religion / Belief 9 3.5 Age Range 9 3.6 Signposted / Action Taken 9 3.7 Client Case Study - Recovery Star 10

4. Working with Community Groups 11 4.1 Community Training and Awareness Raising 11 4.1.1 Summit House Support 12 4.1.2 Dementia Awareness Training 12 4.1.3 Mental Health and Wellbeing with Headway Black Country 13 4.1.4 Wellbeing Workshops 13 4.1.5 Headway Walsall 14 4.1.6 Individuals with a Long Term Health Condition, Lye Salvation Army 14 4.1.7 Dementia Awareness - Gujarati Community 15 4.1.8 Young People’s Wellbeing - Amblecote Christian Centre 15 4.1.9 Dementia Awareness - Chinese Community 16 4.1.10 Mental Health Awareness Session - Shree Krishna Centre 16 4.1.11 Summit House Support Staff 17 4.1.12 The Coseley School Key Stage 3 - Safety Day 17 4.1.13 Need to Knead – A Course Exploring Mental Wellbeing and Baking 17 4.1.14 5 Ways to Wellbeing with Dudley Youth Service 18 4.1.15 Stroke Association Wellbeing Training 18 4.1.16 Sainsbury’s Brierley Hill 19 4.1.17 Moxley People’s Centre 19 4.1.18 Alumwell, Sure Start Centre 19

4.1.19 Black Sister’s Collective 20 4.1.20 Aisha Mosque 20

4.1.21 Walsall Housing Group 21

4.2 Support Groups 21 4.2.1 Existing Groups 21 4.2.1.1 Kala Aur Kalank - Shree Krishna Centre 21 4.2.1.2 Beauty Within - Diyya Group 22 4.2.1.3 Manor Hospital 22 4.2.1.4 Pathways 4 Life -Mind Matters and Dementia Café Talks 23

4.2.2 New Community Groups 23 4.2.2.1 Pyari Sangat - Asian Women’s Mental Health Support Group 23 4.2.2.2 Community Creations - A Sewing Group for Women 24 4.2.2.3 Male Support Group - Walsall 24 4.2.2.4 Migrant Support Group - Walsall 25

4.3 Equality, Diversity and Mental Health Awareness Week 2014 25 4.3.1 Pleck Library 25 4.3.2 Dorothy Pattison Hospital 26 4.3.3 Churchill Precinct 26

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4.3.4 The New Art Gallery 26 4.3.5 Bushey Field’s Hospital 27 4.3.6 Bloxwich Hospital 28 4.3.7 Dementia Awareness Event 28

4.4 Community Events, Drop Ins and Other Support 29 4.4.1 Primary Care - Seeking Help Early 29 4.4.2 Medicine Management with Halesowen Asian Elderly Association 29 4.4.3 World Mental Health Day 30 4.4.4 Black History Month 31 4.4.5 Dignity Day 31 4.4.6 Time to Change, Time to Talk Day 2015 31 4.4.7 Our Community 32 4.4.8 CDW Special Interest Group Dudley 32

5. Working with Statutory Services 33 5.1 Client Work 33 5.2 Workshop Raising Awareness of Prevent 33 5.3 Cultural Competence Training 34 5.4 Welfare Drop-in 34 5.5 Improving Services 34 5.5.1 Religious Items on Trust Wards 34 5.5.2 Festivals and Holy Days Calendar 35 5.5.3 Birch Older Adults Day Unit 35

5.6 Translation and Interpretation 36 5.6.1 Patient Information Leaflet 36 5.6.2 Black and Minority Ethnic Wellbeing Booklet 37

5.7 CDW for Engagement and Experience 37 5.8 CDW Team Volunteer 38 6. Research Projects 38 6.1 The Mental Health and Wellbeing of New Arrival migrant communities 38 7. Evidence of Positive Contribution and Feedback 39 8. Conclusion 40 9. Recommendations 41 10. Appendix 43

10.1 Community Development Worker Team Structure 2014-2015 43 10.2 Annual Statistical Summary - Dudley 44 10.3 Annual Contact Summary - Walsall 45 10.4 Client Contact Pathway - Dudley 46 10.5 Client Contact Pathway - Walsall 47 10.6 Client Contact Form (Internal) 48 10.7 Community Development Worker Patient Information Leaflet 49 10.8 CDW Newsletters 2014-2015 50 10.9 Cultural Competency Reminders 51

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1. Executive Summary Community Development Workers (CDWs) have provided a wide range of support across Dudley and Walsall during the last 12 months. The Team have worked with community groups, statutory and voluntary organisations, with individuals and other Trust teams. During 2014-15, amongst many other types of support, the team have delivered awareness sessions, facilitated and set up community groups, empowered communities and signposted. In 2015-16 the team will continue to provide this high level of service. Some of the key priorities for the team in the next years are: The mental health needs of the Polish Community in Dudley and Walsall will be

addressed.

The team will continue to support other Trust services when working with clients to ensure a culturally competent service is provided.

The CDWs will host a series of events to mark Mental Health, Equality and Diversity

Week 2015, to engage the community, staff and patients. Working with young BME Carers, to ensure they are able to get the right help and

support.

Cultural Awareness training and awareness sessions will be rolled out to staff more regularly.

CDWs will be attending community venues including places of worship and day

centres, in order to provide mental health awareness training.

Links will be forged with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau in Dudley, to increase referrals from this organisation.

Drop-ins or mental health awareness at food banks will be trialled.

2. Introduction The role of Community Development Workers (CDW) was established, under the government’s Delivering Race Equality in Mental Health Care (DRE) agenda (2005) and in response to the death of David Bennett, who died whilst detained in a secure mental health unit. The key aims of a CDW’s role was to work with Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities, and deliver four key areas, in order to raise mental health awareness and empower the community. The four key roles are Change Agent, Service Developer, Access Facilitator and Capacity Builder, and they are explained in more detail on page 5. The DRE was a 5 year initiative, since which the work of CDWs has continued and is governed by strategies including New Horizons (2009), Mental Health Promotion and Prevention (2011) and the Public White Paper (2011).

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The Community Development Worker’s, in addition to working with BME communities ensure that an individual’s rights, under the Equality Act (2010), are met, and they are not treated unfairly. There are nine protected characteristics covered by the Act: age

disability

gender reassignment

marriage and civil partnership

pregnancy and maternity

race

religion or belief

sex

sexual orientation The current team consists of 5 CDWs, who in addition to the Senior CDW, work across both boroughs.

2.1 Four Key Building Blocks of Community Development Work Change Agent Service Developer Capacity Builders Access Facilitator

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2.2 Community Development Work The CDW Team carry out these building blocks, by working in three distinct ways. These are:

3. Working with Individuals

When a client is referred (or self-refers) to the team, a member of the team carries out an initial meeting, in order to establish what their needs are. The most common ways in which the CDWs help individual clients include: Improving access to Trust mental health services, accessing community groups, and

providing self-help materials. When signposting to relevant groups and organisations, a CDW can also accompany

an individual to initial meetings. The team also advise on housing and welfare issues, as well as family mediation, and

raising awareness of mental health conditions and medications. Providing translated information when necessary. During this year, the CDW Team have worked on a one-to-one basis with 194 clients. When working with a client, an internal contact form is completed (An example of which can be found in the appendix 10.6). This allows key monitoring information to be recorded. The referral sources, along with monitoring data, and the nature of work carried out with clients is illustrated in the following charts. The data used accounts for the total number of clients seen, in both Dudley and Walsall. (Please note, this number does not indicate the total number of individuals seen, for example at events, or in training, nut relates to where direct support was offered to a client).

Community Development Workers

Working with

Individuals

Working with Community

Groups

Working with Statutory Services

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3.1 Referral Source During the last year, requests for support, to provide one-to-one support, came from a wide variety of referral sources. Again the largest proportion was made of people who contact the team directly, or self-refer (13%). This was followed closely by referrals from the Transfer and Transition Team (12%) and the Community Recovery Service (8%). The large network of links that have been built in the have allowed for the wide spread of the other referral sources, including both Trust (eg Early Intervention, Acute Hospitals) and external (Summit House, Aisha Mosque, Health Exchange etc) agencies.

3.2 Ethnicity Figure 2 displays the ethnic background of clients. The largest percentage of clients were from an Asian or Asian British-Indian background (31%). This was followed by 23% who were from an Asian or Asian British-Pakistani background. A large range of ethnicities were observed overall which highlights the different backgrounds of CDW clients. A number of clients from Eastern European background were recorded, including Czech, Slovakian and Polish. This question was answered fully, with no ‘non-recorded’ responses being received.

Figure 1 Referrals into the Community

Development Worker Service 2014-2015

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Gender The number of females recorded this year (57%) was slightly more than the number of males (43%). This pattern has been observed during each quarter, where on the whole, the team support more females than males. No transgender clients were recorded this year.

Figure 2 Ethnic Background of CDW Clients 2014-2015

Figure 3 Gender Breakdown of Clients 2014-2015

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3.3 Religion / Belief The religious background of clients during this year was diverse. The largest recorded religions were Islam, Sikhism and Christianity, with 28%, 20% and 18% respectively. Around 10% had no religious belief, and 7% did not wish to state their religion. Similar to the general patient population, no individual’s from a Jewish background were recorded.

3.4 Age Range

A standard distribution in ages was noticed, with a peak around the 40-49 age bracket (29%). The second largest age range was 30-39 with 24%. This correlates with the working age population who the team work with most often. Smaller numbers of clients were supported in the under 18 or over 70 ranges.

3.5 Signposted / Action Taken The chart in figure 7 illustrates the signposts made by the CDW Team. Very often, a method of self-help material (booklet, CD, tool etc) is offered in addition to a signpost or further action, and this accounts for the 83 recorded here. Translated self-help material is also offered. 5 clients needed no further support after working with a member of the team, and in the other instances, a referral was made to one or more of the agencies with which the team have links. Most notably these referrals were to Rethink Mental Illness, Walsall Community College and to the client’s GP, often in order to access Trust services.

Figure 6 Age Range of CDW

Clients 2015-2016

Figure 5 Religious Belief of Clients 2014-2015

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3.6 Client Case Study - Recovery Star When working on a one-to-one basis with clients, where appropriate, a Mental Health Recovery Star is completed to ascertain what improvements have been made, before, during and following an intervention. The following is an example of this, from a client who the team worked with in Dudley recently. The client discussed in this Recovery Star is male, in his early 40’s, from a South Asian background, and part of the Gujarati Hindu community. He originally became known to the team after a referral from Social Services. In particular, the client’s mother was quite concerned about the mental health of her son, he seemed to be displaying odd behaviour, and was quite aggressive towards her and other family members. Every time she tried to address her concerns with her son he refused to believe he had anything mentally wrong with him. The client is convinced there is something wrong with his physical health, although doctors have carried out many tests and not found anything physically wrong with him. The client feels that going abroad for an operation is his only hope to getting better, and hr constantly argues with his mother to take him abroad. The client’s dad passed away when he was young, and he has lived with his mother for most of his life. He has no friends, although he does go to the pub on a Friday and Saturday evening, where he doesn’t speak with anyone. He is unemployed and currently looking for work. A CDW initially visited him at home and after speaking with the client, it became apparent that he felt quite isolated and misunderstood. He felt that doctors did not take his physical health complaints seriously and ‘fobbed him off’ by saying it was all in his mind. The client was desperate to feel better within himself and felt hopeless saying that most men his age had settled down with jobs and a family. The client was taking medication (not regularly) for anxiety which he said helped him sleep better. It was obvious that he wanted to improve his life, but was unsure how. The client was very grateful for the chat, and CDW left some self- help material for the client to read. The CDW then arranged to visit in the community, informing about a local self-management course that was taking place locally. The CDW explained that the course

Figure 7 Signposting of Clients 2014-2015

DWMH Trust Service

Community Group /

Organisation

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would help him to manage his long term health condition, and he would learn skills that would help him move forward. Although initially reluctant, the client has been attending the self-management programme, and is feeling much more positive and hopeful about the future. He has a much better relationship with his mother, and feels less isolated. The client’s social networks have improved and he has made new friends in the group. He has also started taking his medication regularly. After expressing an interest to continue attending a group, the CDW has made the client aware of Man-Made Dudley, a new group that could help him continue on his road to recovery.

4. Working with Community Groups The second aspect of the CDW role is working with community groups, and engaging the public: Providing regular drop-in services, across both boroughs. Offering mental health and wellbeing sessions to raise awareness and challenge

stigma. Holding information stands in community venues, including libraries. Hosting and attending community engagement events, where the public is able to get

information on mental health, services, self-help and other information.

4.1 Community Training and Awareness Raising A range of community training is offered by the team, including Basic Mental Health Awareness, Dementia Awareness and the 5 Ways to Wellbeing.

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4.1.1 Summit House Support In April 2014, a two hour workshop on the five ways to wellbeing was delivered at Summit House. There were over 25 participants who took part and many were from the gay men's group that regularly meet once a month on a Saturday. The training was very well received; evaluation showed that the group went from not knowing any of the five ways to wellbeing to knowing all or most of them.

All participants took part in an evaluation of their own wellbeing and some used stamps to create 'Mandala's' (life

maps) of their current use of the five ways to wellbeing. Over 90% of the group would like more mental health awareness training and the CDWs plan to continue sessions in the future. One feedback comment stated ‘I'd love to see further workshops, thoroughly enjoyable and informative five ways to wellbeing session’.

4.1.2 Dementia Awareness Training

In May, some dementia awareness training for community workers who work with the South Asian communities was arranged. The training was planned to coincide with dementia awareness week and was used as a platform to raise an awareness of a DVD produced by the Trust entitled “A journey of Memory” which explores attitudes towards dementia with in the south Asian communities.

The Free two hour training was advertised well in advance and over 35 people registered their interest in attending the event. Key speakers were contacted to deliver the training, which included Dr Tabassum, Older Age Psychiatrist, Alison Hewson, Clinical Nurse specialist, and Carole Clarke, Dementia advisor, dementia gateway service. NHS health checks also gave a brief overview into their service.

On the day we had over 30 delegates sign in from a variety of backgrounds. All those who completed an evaluation form, were given a copy of the DVD and a certificate. As a result of the training, awareness events will now be organised with the Chinese and Gujarati communities. 22 completed evaluation forms were received. All of the comments showed that the delegates found the training very useful and worthwhile attending. Many would like more training on different mental health issues.

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Some of these comments were: ‘Very informative and useful’ ‘I gained further knowledge about dementia’ ‘Increased my knowledge as I work alongside older people’ ‘Awareness on all mental health should be made more public’ ‘Very useful introduction’ ‘Very informative’ ‘Well worth attending’ ‘Excellent - very informative’

4.1.3 Mental Health and Wellbeing with Headway Black Country June saw the team deliver two workshops on the five ways to wellbeing with carers and service users of Headway Black country, who support individuals who have an acquired brain injury. Those who attended the carers wellbeing session, thoroughly enjoyed it. The evaluation forms showed that all the participants found the training useful, and felt that they learned something new from the training. The Mandala stamping activity proved to be very popular. The road to

wellbeing booklets and CD’s were given out. The carers had the opportunity to evaluate their own use of the 5 ways to wellbeing, and how they could add to it. In the session for service users, there were 10 participants in the group, which usually meet on a Friday to access help and support from Headway. The 5 ways to wellbeing presentation lasted about an hour, followed by a stamping

activity. The group were engaged all the way through, and asked questions as we went along. As members of the group have an acquired brain injury, the presentation was delivered at a steady pace, so everyone could follow along. The evaluations showed that everyone found the training useful and learned something new from it. None of the participants were aware of the five ways to wellbeing at the start of the session, but were familiar with them by the end. One of the participants said that the training was ‘very helpful and informative’, and that they had ‘enjoyed the participation in the activity’. 4.1.4 Wellbeing Workshops The CDW Team have constructed a Free 6 week Mental Health and Wellbeing Course to be delivered in the Walsall locality. The aim of the course is to raise awareness of mental health, breakdown stigma and to promote local health and wellbeing services. By going out into the community we hope to enable BME communities and vulnerable group’s accessibility to the course within a familiar setting. Sessions include:

The Five Ways of Wellbeing

- Icebreakers

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- Happy Jar activity

Mental Health Awareness

Suicide Awareness

Healthy Lifestyles talk

Exercise Taster

Arts & Craft Activity & Shared Experience Talk

This course aims to be accessible within hard to reach BME communities by delivering the course within community/ support group settings. The course was delivered to the Mahila Mandle Sikh Sahali Group made up of Asian 50+ women who meet weekly at the Palfrey Community Centre. Each of the sessions are tailored and a specific dementia awareness session and a falls prevention exercise taster were included. 4.1.5 Headway Walsall A member of the team was invited to give a mental awareness session to staff members. This session was very interactive, and many who attended were able to share their experiences. It was well received and we were asked to return to deliver a session to the carers group in the near future. 4.1.6 Individuals with a Long Term Health Condition, Lye Salvation Army

Two further training sessions on the five ways to wellbeing were delivered at Lye Salvation Army. The first training session was for a group of Asian Ladies who meet regularly on a Friday to gain help and support from the Salvation Army’s employment support project. All the ladies have long term health conditions. The session was delivered in Urdu, and was well received by the group. The group looked at the 5 ways to wellbeing and how implementing those in their lives could improve their

wellbeing. They were signposted on to local groups and organisations that could help them with improving their wellbeing. One of the ladies is now planning to take up exercise and get cooking classes at the local community centre. The second session was again for a group that meet at the Salvation Army, who all have a long term health condition. The group regularly meet to provide peer support to one another. The five ways to wellbeing was well received, with the group offering many of their own examples of connecting, being active, learning, taking notice and giving. The group are also taking part in an expert patient programme course on Monday’s and found that this has also helped improve their wellbeing. The group felt that by using the five ways to well-being you could improve how you feel within yourself. They found the training useful and informative.

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4.1.7 Dementia Awareness - Gujarati Community In July the CDWs organised a workshop to raise awareness of dementia within the Hindu, Gujarati community. The session took place at the Shree Krishna Temple, Hope Street, Dudley. The community themselves had requested the awareness workshop, as a result of a community member attending some earlier dementia training organised by the trust. Additionally this community member’s mom had been recently diagnosed with vascular dementia and he felt that other members of his community would benefit from

learning more about dementia. The workshop started with the group watching a DVD entitled ‘Journey of Memory’. This DVD is aimed at the BME communities, and portrays how an Asian family copes when the granddad in the family start’s to develop dementia. The DVD has been produced in a drama style, and looks into signs and symptoms of dementia as well as exploring the stigmas attached to the condition.

After the DVD the group engaged in an interactive session, where the main points on the DVD were explored together as a group. A community member was on hand to help with translation. Carol Clarke from the Dementia gateway service was on hand to talk about the help and support available for people with dementia and their carers in Dudley. It was an interactive workshop with the group asking lots of questions. Each participant was given a pack of information which contained leaflets on Dementia both in English and Gujarati. The workshop was well attended, and feedback showed that the group found the session informative and enjoyable. The women enjoyed looking at the Trust 1 in 4 magazine, which had some information in it about the dementia awareness day the trust organised. 4.1.8 Young People’s Wellbeing - Amblecote Christian Centre

Also in July, a youth group that regularly meet at the Amblecote Christian centre took part in a training session to find out more about the 5 ways to wellbeing. The centre had been awarded some money from Public Mental Health’s Small Grant fund to raise an awareness of mental health. The young people involved with the centre had wrote a song about mental health and

the church’s youth band were going to record it. It is hoped the song will be played on Bridge FM. To support this work the CDW team had been invited to talk to the young people about wellbeing. The group learned about the 5 ways to wellbeing and conducted an evaluation of their own wellbeing, which they found very interesting.

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4.1.9 Dementia Awareness - Chinese Community In September the CDWs in partnership with Winnie Turvey (Development Officer for the Chinese Community at Dudley Council) and Dudley Dementia Services, organised an event to raise awareness of dementia within the Chinese Community.

The event, held at Valley Road Youth Centre in Lye, was very successful and more than 30 members of the community attended. As the most common form of dementia in Dudley is vascular dementia, the NHS health check team were invited along from Public health to offer free cholesterol and blood

glucose testing. This proved really popular and the team have been invited back to offer more checks in the near future. The health trainers were also on hand to offer healthy lifestyle advice. Alison, Hewson Memory Nurse delivered a presentation on dementia which was translated into Cantonese and a video clip from the internet in Cantonese was also shown to the group. The group were very interested to learn about dementia and asked lots of questions.

4.1.10 Mental Health Awareness Session - Shree Krishna Centre

The Shree Krishna Centre, with support from the CDW Team applied for and successfully attained some funding for a project exploring Art and Mental Health, Kala Aur Kalank. This project comprises of mental health awareness raising sessions and art therapy to improve wellbeing. An artist from Dudley Adult Community Learning was found, and they worked with group for 5 sessions over 8 weeks.

The CDW Team delivered a Mental Health Awareness Session to the group in August, in preparation for the art to begin. This initial session was delivered to the group and included the presentation of a mental health DVD, produced by the

Dudley and Walsall Mental Health Trust, alongside a discussion on mental health, and how to attain positive wellbeing. The five ways to wellbeing were discussed, where many of the group reported to using alternative therapies, including yoga and meditation. To bring the session to a close, the group members were given the opportunity to create a

mandala; using a 5 Ways to Wellbeing stamp kit, to aid with their meditation.

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Overall the evaluation showed that all 9 participants found the event useful, and all but 1 had learnt something new by attending. 4.1.11 Summit House Support Staff

This session was offered to staff belonging to 2 separate teams who operate within Summit House Support in Dudley during October. The session was very interactive, and the group took part in the session wholly. An overview of different mental health conditions, along with self-help methods, the 5 Ways to Wellbeing, and information

on local services was delivered to the group. In addition the effects of stigma and discrimination were explored. An evaluation completed at the end showed all had found the session useful, and learnt something new by attending. Comments included: ‘very interesting, more info regarding illnesses’, ‘found today very informative’ and ‘it was all good and very knowledgeable’. 4.1.12 The Coseley School Key Stage 3 - Safety Day

The Community Development Workers delivered some mental health and wellbeing sessions to year 9 students at The Coseley School as part of Key stage 3 – safety day. The sessions were delivered in partnership with Dudley council’s youth service. Over 100 young people benefitted from the sessions which were based on the five ways to wellbeing. The young people were asked to break into groups and look at each of

the five ways to wellbeing and come up with examples of how they could implement them into their lives. 4.1.13 Need to Knead - A Course Exploring Mental Wellbeing and Baking The Community Development Team in partnership with Summit House Support applied to Dudley Public Mental Health’s, Small Grant Fund, for some money to run a bread making and wellbeing course. This was after a consultation and needs assessment with the service users of Summit House.

An initial five ways to wellbeing session was delivered which was well received, this was followed by a consultation by the CDW team and Dudley Mind to find out if the service users would be interested in further training on mental health issues and which ones. The consultation was conducted with the gay man’s group that meet on a Saturday and also looked at which days of the week would be best to deliver the course.

The consultation showed that the men wanted more information on topics such as anxiety and depression, and that the best time to deliver the sessions would be the weekend. The information was used to form the basis of the funding application.

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4.1.14 5 Ways to Wellbeing with Dudley Youth Service The Community Development Worker Team was contacted by Dudley Council’s Youth Service, as they wanted input from the team to help deliver wellbeing sessions with a group of boys that attend Valley Road youth centre in Lye. 5 sessions were planned based on the five ways to wellbeing. See below for a full breakdown of sessions. The boys met on a Thursday evening and the group consisted of 12 to 16 year olds, all from the local area. As part of the first session on Connect, the boys undertook an activity aimed at learning more about each other. This was important as is gave the boys an opportunity to learn things about their peers that they might not have known. The boys also completed a WEMWBS form in the first session, so that any impact on wellbeing can be measured. Information on the five ways to wellbeing as well as other self-help leaflets were given out. In order to understand Keep Learning the youth service organised for a graffiti artist to work with the group. A smoothie bike was used to demonstrate a number of the 5 ways, with a focus on Be Active. The youth service also organised a trip to the theatre, which incorporated Take Notice into the theme of the outing. The sessions have been well received by the group. 4.1.15 Stroke Association Wellbeing Session

The team in partnership with Age UK’s Eat Well Coordinator, Suzanne Hemming, organised two cooking masterclasses and wellbeing sessions for the Stroke Association’s Talkback Group. The Aim of the sessions was to raise an awareness of the five ways to wellbeing in a fun and engaging way. This is because evidence suggests that poor physical health can impact on a person’s mental health and wellbeing. On a visit to the group, the CDW s ascertained how best to

deliver the session. The group were quite keen to learn some new cooking skills and these were combined into the sessions. As all of the members of the group have suffered a stroke, and have been affected in different ways by their illness. It was important that any activities offered to the group would be suitable for everyone to participate in. The cooking masterclass was therefore delivered to reflect this. The group worked together whilst preparing the food. The first week the group made a Tuna pasta salad and the second week they made a

strawberry trifle. The group also received information on healthy eating as well as information on the five ways to wellbeing. The groups were well attended, with over 28 participants registered. The graph below shows the ages and the gender of the participants.

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When asked how you did find today’s training. All participants answered with a smiley face. When asked have you learned anything from this training? Again all answered with a smiley face. When asked do you think the training has met its objectives? All answered with a smiley face. Many participants really enjoyed taking part in the masterclasses and are considering taking part in get cooking courses.

4.1.16 Sainsbury’s Brierley Hill As part of a Health and Wellbeing Day for staff, Sainsbury’s asked the CDWs to deliver a short presentation on mental health, wellbeing, local services and self-help.

Around 30 members of staff were present on the day, and of these 10-15 were managers from other local stores. An open discussion on mental health took place during the session, and some misconceptions about mental health were corrected. The 5 Ways to wellbeing were explained and examples of how to practice these given. Some self-help booklets along with details of local agencies were provided at the end, and the team will be invited back to future events. The possibility of having a regular drop-in at the supermarket was also touched upon, as in the past these have been popular with customers. This will possibly start in early 2015. Those who gave verbal feedback at the end stated they had found the session very useful, and their awareness on the subject had been raised. Following the session, this feedback email was sent: ‘I just wanted to say a huge thank you for your time yesterday. I know the participants found your presentation on the services available very informative and I am sure they will make their colleagues aware of the fantastic resources available. Many thanks to you both’. 4.1.17 Moxley People’s Centre The CDW Team was invited by WHG’s community health champion to deliver a mental health and wellbeing awareness session to a group of 15 young mothers based at Moxley Peoples Centre. The session looked at general mental health and wellbeing, common and severe mental illnesses and stigma and discrimination. The group of ladies were very open talking about the different types of mental illnesses, some even shared they were suffering from a form a mental illness while others shared they have families who suffered from the illness. At the end of the session everyone in the group were involved in the discussions, some express it’s the best session they had so far. The ladies were left with self-help guides and Five Ways to Wellbeing booklets. 4.1.18 Alumwell, Sure Start Centre The CDWs delivered the 6 Week Mental Health & Wellbeing Course to a mixed group of locals at Alumwell Sure Start Centre. We covered sessions on the 5 ways of wellbeing, mental health awareness and suicide awareness. We also arranged a laughter yoga session and arranged talks from Lifestyle services and Voiceability. Feedback from the course was positive. All participants found the course informative and there was interest in further courses and projects the Trust will be delivering in the future.

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4.1.19 Black Sisters Collective Seven sessions were delivered to a mental health support group at Black Sisters Collective. We adapted sessions specifically for the group to deliver mental health awareness sessions in an engaging and creative way; this included group discussions about

shared experiences and a flip chart activity exploring

mental illnesses and ways to improve mental health. We also arranged talks with the Diabetes awareness team and Voicability. Falls prevention also delivered a seated exercise session and we finished the course with an arts and crafts session where group members made Halloween

inspired cards. We received positive feedback from all attendees. Feedback from sessions has been positive and through the course we have also generated referrals for the team. 4.1.20 Aisha Mosque

A mental health awareness session was presented in December, to the ladies group who meet at Aisha Mosque weekly, on Thursday mornings. Often, females in this community are unable to share or talk about their conditions, in the presence of males. Having a specific female only event eliminated this issue. The team’s first volunteer, Sunita Bhatti also helped to deliver the presentation by using culturally appropriate examples whilst interpreting.

This particular presentation focused on stigma and discrimination. Mental health is still a very taboo subject amongst Asian communities. However, we were pleased to receive a very welcome response and positive feedback from the group as the ladies were fully engaged throughout the hour long presentation and were very keen to discuss mental health and learn about the very common prevalence of mental health illness not only within Walsall and Asian communities but within the UK overall. All of the resourced that were taken for the group were picked up at the end. 55 Ladies were in attendance and we also accumulated referrals and had one to one discussions. The Walsall CDW team will be planning to work with Aisha mosque in 2015 to deliver and Mental Health Awareness and Wellbeing project to enlighten, enable and empower the ladies to attain and develop good mental health awareness and wellbeing.

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Feedback included: ‘I really enjoyed myself’ and ‘I really learnt something new. The training really made me think’. 4.1.21 Walsall Housing Group The CDWs have attended events at Walsall Housing Groups’ Equality and Diversity Month. These comprised the delivery of short presentations on Mental Health and Equality, on certain days during November and December. A large number of people were able to benefit from these presentations, and they included WHG Staff and service users. 5 Ways to Wellbeing sessions were delivered as part of this, and received very positive feedback. Some of which included:

‘Sessions was spot on regarding subject and level’ ‘Very good’ ‘Very well presented and interesting’ ‘Really enjoyed the course. Informative. Thank you’ ‘The session was well informed and all aspects have been covered’ ‘Very informative. Thank you!’ ‘The case studies were very informative and interesting and covered many types

of mental illness’ ‘Really enjoyed it !! very interesting. Lots of information’

4.2 Support Groups The CDW Team have continued to support existing groups, helping with the mental health needs, promoting access and helping to source funding. In addition, the team have worked together with other community agencies and set up a number of new groups.

4.2.1 Existing Groups 4.2.1.1 Kala Aur Kalank - Shree Krishna Centre After delivering an initial mental health awareness session to reintroduce mental health to attendees, it was established that religion plays a big part in how they manage common mental health problems. From here a

tutor from Dudley Adult Community Learning was sourced, and a project that looked at art therapy began. The name of the group and the centre where they meet is Shree Krishna. As such an image of the Hindu God Lord Krishna was selected, and this would be separated into three pieces, with a different art form used on each. The group are able to work on this piece collectively connect with each other.

The culmination of the project will be a foldable guide, which the group members can keep with them, and this will provide them with information on relaxation, the five ways to wellbeing and

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some useful contact numbers, all translated into Gujarati. 4.2.1.2 Beauty Within - Diyya Group

The Diyya Project in Lye were supported, to make an application to Dudley Public Mental Health’s Small Grant Fund. This was because the project had identified that there was a lack of services locally that would be suitable for the younger girls from within the project to attend. This in turn was having a detrimental effect on the wellbeing of some of the girls. After speaking with the

young people, the girls said that they would like to learn more about and improve their own wellbeing by learning nail art and beauty techniques. The group were successful in securing just under £1000, to run the 6 week “Beauty Within” course. The course started in October and was a great success, with over 20 young people aged 11 to 16 attending every week. As well as learning about different nail art techniques the young people have also learned about the 5 ways to wellbeing and

developing emotional resilience.

Pictures taken of the nail art are being used to design bookmarks, which will be based on the 5 Ways to Wellbeing. The Warwick – Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS) has been used as a tool to evaluate any improvements in wellbeing. A full report of the project and its findings will be available from the team, once the project is complete.

4.2.1.3 Manor Hospital The CDWs were invited to give a presentation on the work that we do to community representatives at the Manor Hospital. Key areas, such as the work we do to support communities and training that we do within our Trust around cultural awareness, were delivered. The Community Representatives Group meets bi-monthly and is represented by varied members of different communities. They have worked with the Manor Hospital over a number of years in a voluntary capacity to provide input and advice on the needs of Black and ethnic minority communities. The purpose of the group is to provide a two way link into ensuring that key messages from the Trust are shared with the respective communities. The presentation was well received by all and was very interactive. Questions came up as the number of BME that are currently accessing our services and concerns were shown about some Asian communities failing to access dementia services due to family culture of caring for their elders. Some members of the group are keen to invite the CDWs to deliver further mental health awareness sessions within their communities. Some feedback from the hospital included: ‘Thank you so much for attending the meeting last night. Feedback was very good’.

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4.2.1.4 Pathways 4 Life - Mind Matters Café and Dementia Café Talks The CDWs gave a number of talks focusing on how the team works with within the community to promote both mental health awareness and support individuals in signposting services. The talks were held at the Mind Matter’s Café in Walsall town centre which attracts a broad mix of individuals around the borough and Apna Ghar which is a day centre that caters to the cultural needs of mainly Asian older adults. This gave the team an opportunity to introduce the Trust’s mental health focused support groups within the area which are currently running. These include the weekly Asian women’s support group ‘Pyari Sangat’, Palfrey’s two weekly ‘Our Community’ group, and the monthly migrant and men’s group in Chuckery. 4.2.2 New Community Groups 4.2.2.1 Pyari Sangat - Asian Women’s Mental Health Support Group

The CDW team established Pyari Sangat, an Asian Women’s Mental Health Support group in September 2014. The group was set up specifically for Asian women to redress language barriers and cultural needs for women within that community who live with a mental health illness. Mental health has always been misunderstood within the Asian community as the words themselves tend to conjure up negative associations within the community therefore having a mental illness is very much hidden in today’s

society. The group was inspired by a local who attended one of our events during Mental Health Awareness week in May 2014. The client had suffered with a mental health illness and felt that through her experience and that of peers and family members who she is familiar with that it was common place for Asian women like her to feel isolated because of the stigma attached to mental illness. We therefore held an event at Birchill’s Sure Start Centre to promote mental health awareness and the idea of setting up a support group for women with shared experiences

within a safe and confidential environment where they didn’t feel judged or stigmatised with the aim to increase overall wellbeing. The CDW Team have been working in partnership with the Pathways 4 Life project. Pathways for Life is a joint partnership scheme between Age UK Walsall and Accord Housing Association in which they provide advice and support for people with a diagnosis of dementia.

We were very pleased to experience a successful turn out for the launch. For the first session our primary objective was to establish that the agenda for the group would be influenced by the group itself and to generate an open discussion to explore ideas and suggestions for the weekly sessions. The group decided that they would like to know more about the different types of local health and social services that were accessible to them

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specifically. Therefore, we set up a schedule of talks with representatives from local organisations. A regular turn out of over 15 members each week is generated. After a core group was established, the name the group with a title that embodied a positive perception of wellbeing was selected. The ladies collectively came up with the name ‘Pyari Sangat’ meaning lovely or beautiful collective of people. Throughout the week a number of planned sessions, which included a culturally aimed self-esteem session, yoga laughter, a falls prevention seated exercise activity and talks presented by a number of representatives from local organisations, including Health Watch, Voiceability and KeyRing were held. Diwali was celebrated by lighting a candle and incorporating arts and crafts, mehndi and an Indian feast. A visit from established author, journalist and Playwright Jeremy Seabrook during the Diwali celebration to discuss the group’s experiences as Asians living in Britain today took place. 4.2.2.2 Community Creations – An Interfaith Sewing Group for Women A new group aimed at improving social isolation, wellbeing and crafting skills for women

was launched in March 2015 at St Pauls Church Hall in Halesowen. The community development workers alongside St Paul’s Church applied to the Near Neighbours Grant Fund for some money to establish this much needed support group in the Halesowen area. They were successful in their bid and this is how the community creations group was started. The launch of the group was very successful, with more than 30 women attending, as well as two local councillors and the local press! The group has purchased five new sewing machines and will have the support of a qualified tutor to help and support the

women learn new skills. The community creations group is open to all women from all backgrounds and will meet once a week on a Wednesday afternoon from. It is hoped that the group will be relaxed, informal and a safe place for women to meet and learn new skills. The main aims of the group are to improve community cohesion, wellbeing and reduce social isolation. 4.2.2.3 Male Support Group - Walsall This group launched in January 2015, and takes place monthly, with a steady turnout. Men are always taught to hide their feelings; as a result, men suffer in silence. This group is an opportunity for them to come together, talk to each other, see how others are getting on and participate in any programme that will be put on by partner agencies. Though the

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group will have a mental health focus, it is not exclusively for men who are suffering from a mental ill health. All men are welcome to attend the group sessions and participate. The benefits of attending include mental health awareness workshops, wellbeing sessions, gaining tools on how to look after their mental wellbeing and meeting new people. 4.2.2.4 Migrant Support Group - Walsall There are not many support groups or organisation that caters specifically for refugees and asylum seekers or new migrants within Walsall Borough. Refugees and asylum seekers are vulnerable group, especially when coming into an area where they are not familiar with services and facilities. Individuals can get anxious, lonely and depress in an area or circumstances they are not familiar with. The support group is ensuring that there is somewhere new migrants can go within an informal setting and meet other people. Compared to Dudley, Wolverhampton and Birmingham, Walsall has fallen short of providing a specific service for new migrants. From the G4S report, Walsall currently accommodates over 200 asylum seekers, with possibilities of numbers increasing in the near future. There has also been increase with EU nationals accessing services. This group also launched in January, and although initial turnout was low, this has steadily increased.

4.3 Equality, Diversity and Mental Health Awareness Week 2014 In 2014, similar to previous years, a series of events, workshops and learning opportunities were arranged and attended across both Dudley and Walsall. A summary of the events can be found below. 4.3.1 Pleck Library

The aim of the event was to celebrate cultural diversity, raise awareness and to allow locals an opportunity to speak about mental health within a local family orientated environment. The family event attracted around 100 locals who participated in activities which included Dhol playing, mehndi (henna) art, exercise, face-painting and arts and crafts, through ArtSpace. Literature and self-help guides to inform and promote

local health and well-being services were also provided. The event allowed locals an opportunity to engage not only with the services and activities provided but also with each other.

It was a vibrant busy atmosphere as the event was well attended and the feedback from evaluations was all positive. The main suggestion reiterated by event goers is to hold more events similar to this throughout the year.

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As well as bringing the community together it also allowed locals the opportunity to get familiar with local stakeholders and community workers. 4.3.2 Dorothy Pattison Hospital

An event aimed at staff and patients took place, and CDWs liaised with the catering staff who put on a delicious hot buffet of Asian variety food within the canteen area. The adjacent room was utilised for health and wellbeing, and a HR representative was also present, for staff to discuss any work related issues. An arts and crafts activity led by a wellbeing coach took place, with many staff members constructing pieces of art for their

colleagues or friends, to show how much they are appreciated and valued. A number of staff attended, and overall 40 were recorded. All evaluations and feedback was positive. 4.3.3 Churchill Precinct This event was organised for the public, and a range of health related stalls made available. Physical and mental health information was displayed and the health trainers were on site to offer free health checks. Dudley Mind, Rethink and Headway were all in attendance and were

able to talk directly with attendees. ArtSpace offered people the chance to design their own canvass bag. A Dhol player was asked to play the outside the main doors, in order to encourage people to come and see what the event was about.

Overall, the evaluation showed that people attending the event found it useful, as the following quote from the evaluation shows ‘Just keep up the good work. It’s good there are people to call on when help is needed’. Others said that they would like more similar events, ‘We need more of these events please thank you’. 4.3.4 The New Art Gallery

This event was to attract the public within a central location to engage with local health and wellbeing service providers. A steel drum band who created a cheerful environment, performed and stands were set up in the foyer. Stakeholders included The Falls Prevention Team who led a gallery square walk and a taster exercise session, Lifestyle Services who provided a well-being bus for health checks and taster exercises wand ArtSpace Dudley, who provided a decorative bag making and

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expression wall activity. A yoga Laughter specialist undertook taster sessions. Information stands from Age UK, Walsall Rethink, Black Sisters Collective, Deaf People’s Service, Independent Living Centre and W.A.A.S.P (who also had a dynamo frame bicycle). A light buffet, along with promotional items and literature were again made available. Cultural, health and well-being DVD’s were shown throughout the day, in order to make the public more aware. A steady turn out for the event was observed, with around 75 individuals over the course of the day. Evaluations were mainly positive and event goers commented most on enjoying the activities. 4.3.5 Bushey Fields Hospital

This staff and service user event took place at Dove House, in Bushey Fields Hospital. Similar to the event at Dorothy Pattison, It was a very successful day, 49 completed evaluations forms with around 150 people attending on the day. The venue worked really well, although as we had a large number of people attending it did feel a little cramped at times. Stall holders included the interfaith network, Dudley

Mind, Rethink Mental illness and the Step-Up employment service, and health checks were again offered. The event was advertised well, through the

communication’s department and by physically displaying posters. On the day itself, a CDW visited the wards and encouraged staff to come and take part in the day, and have some free lunch. The large number of evaluations received was in part due to the catering staff exchanging completed forms, for some food.

Some of the positive comments from these events included: ‘It was well organised with plenty going on, well done all’ ‘First experience of such, very informative’ ‘Very positive experience’ ‘No experience, just the same friendly attitude’ ‘Just keep up the good work. Its good there are people to call on when help is needed’ ‘We need more of these events please’ ‘The venue worked well at Dove house’ ‘Seemed to attract lots of which has been good. Would be nice if more patients from

the wards would access it too. Venue good. Refreshments appreciated’ ‘Very good’

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4.3.6 Bloxwich Hospital This was the last of the staff, patient and carer events. The Beeches Day Hospital was decorated with fresh flowers and balloons, which encouraged attendees to come in and have a look at the information on offer. The canteen room was utilised to serve a hot buffet and displayed an Equality and Diversity cake especially made for the event by the staff.

An Indian drum player interacted with staff and patients allowing them a chance to play the Indian tabla drums. Lifestyle services, Age UK and a representative from HR also attended the event providing useful information which the staff and patients fed back as being very informative, and health checks were offered by Pleck pharmacy. Around 30 people attended, and provided positive feedback. 4.3.7 Dementia Awareness Event

Originally this event was planned for early in 2014, however was moved to coincide with Mental Health and Dementia Awareness weeks. Working together with Dr Tabassum and older adult’s psychiatrist in Walsall, community workers from Accord Housing, and our own Communications team, the CDWs planned this day. The aim of this event was to launch the Journey of Memory DVD, which focusses on

Dementia in the Asian community. Palfrey was selected as a venue, due to the high ethnic makeup of the area, and a Saturday selected, in order to maximise the number of attendees. After initial planning, stall holders from local statutory and voluntary services were asked to attended, and an advertising campaign started. Posters were created, and then subsequently translated into 4 key community languages. These were widely

distributed, both physically and electronically. As well as a press release, social media and radio advertisements were made. Stall holders on the day of the event included, the Trust’s Memory Clinic, Alzheimer’s Society, Walsall Lifestyle Services, Pleck Pharmacy and Accord housing, among many others. Marc Weaver (who chaired the event) made an opening speech, alongside Dr Tabassum.

In addition to a ‘stall’ event, two workshops took place, where individuals were given the opportunity to view the ‘Journey of Memory’ DVD, and then provide feedback and discussion.

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Over 50 people attended the event, and most said they found the day useful. Individuals were able to get a lot of useful information, and learn how to spot the signs of dementia. Overall this was a successful event, and a good way to end the weeks.

4.4 Community Events, Drop Ins and Other Support The team attend range of relevant community events across both Dudley and Walsall, some of which are highlighted here. 4.4.1 Primary Care - Seeking Help Early

In September the team organised an event to raise awareness of the importance of seeking help early when feeling mentally unwell. The event was held at Lye Community centre, and was extremely well attended with more than

80 people signing in on the day. Encouragingly, many male community members were present. Agencies who provided information stalls included, the Enhanced Primary Care nurses,

Creative Support, Rethink Mental Illness, Dudley Mind, NHS Health Checks and many more. A buffet lunch was provided for those who attended. The event was well evaluated, with many attendees appreciating the opportunity to find out about primary care mental health services in a relaxed and informal environment. The Trust’s Experts by Experience were also on hand to talk to individuals about their experiences and offer support and signposting.

Some of the positive comments on the evaluations were ‘great event, thanks’, and ‘it was very informative’. Overall it was a successful event that engaged with people from different communities and raised an awareness of mental health and mental health services. 4.4.2 Medicine Management with Halesowen Asian Elderly Association

A Medicines Management talk was delivered by Trust pharmacist Sukvinder Sandar in partnership with the Community Development Workers, at Halesowen Asian Elderly Association. The event was very well attended with 40 members of the group benefiting from the information provided. The presentation was delivered in Punjabi, and focused on managing medicines as well as the link between physical

and mental health. The talk was very well received and many group members approached Sukvinder with questions at the end. Razia Chaudhry an Expert by experience (EBE) for the Trust was also present, to share her experiences with the group.

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Information and leaflets on medicines management were given out in Urdu/Punjabi and Hindi. The leaflets were taken from the choice and medication website. A number of group members wanted further information and support and the CDWs signposted to a number of different agencies. The group were particularly happy to receive information on managing medication during the month of Ramadan. 4.4.3 World Mental Health Day Each year October 10th marks World Mental Health Day. In 2014, the team were involved in events to mark the day, in both Dudley and Walsall.

In Dudley, an event was held at Priory Park, on Saturday 11th October. The event was organised by the CDW for Engagement and Experience, with support from the rest of the team. On the day a large number of stakeholders were in attendance including Rethink, Mind, Creative Support amongst other

Trust Services, such as the Service Experience Desk and Enhanced Primary Care. Other events the CDWs supported included health events,

which took place at libraries in Dudley. The 3 libraries were Coseley, Stourbridge and Kingswinford, and separate events were held during October 2014. These proved popular with the local library customers, and information was given out to a number of people. Also available at select venues was the Emergency Poet, who ‘prescribes’ poetry on prescription.

In Walsall, the CDW’s supported Lifestyle Services, in the event that was held on October 10th, and took place at Park Place Shopping Centre. After a slow start, throughout the

course of the event a number of people attended, and picked up information from the stalls on offer. A craft activity was also set up, with many of those who attended making a card or similar paper craft item.

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4.4.4 Black History Month A CDW supported Walsall Black Sisters Collective, at an event to mark this month in October. The Collective held a talent night, and it proved to be a great success. Local talent was showcased, and community cohesion was demonstrated throuh the number of different communities in attendance. 4.4.5 Dignity Day As part of the events to mark world Dignity Day, the CDWs supported staff at an event which took place at Bloxwich Hospital. The vent was very well attended, by staff, patients and carers. Dawn Roe, who organised the event said ’Today’s event was another resounding success. I want to say a big thank you to all the Dignity Champions for their hard work in promoting dignity care both in work and in their own time’. 4.4.6 Time to Change, Time to Talk Day 2015

The first Thursday in February marks Time to Talk Day, which encourages more people to talk about mental health, in order to reduce the stigma and isolation felt by people who are suffering from poor mental health This year the team held separate events in Dudley and Walsall. In Dudley they celebrated the day by providing information

in the Health Hub in the foyer of Russell Hall Hospital. Alongside the team, staff from Rethink Mental Illness were also available for members of the public to talk to.

There was a vast array of leaflets and self-help booklets as well as information about accessing mental health services. Over 60 conversations were recorded, with a number or referrals being made into local organisations. One Individual requested help specifically from the CDW service and is receiving ongoing support.

In Walsall, the team worked in partnership with Pathways 4 life to hold a Time to Talk event at Allumwell, Pleck Sure Start Centre. Service providers who supported the event included HealthWatch, Falls Prevention, Citizen’s Advice Bureau, Walsall Adult Community College, Mindful Gifts, Mobile library Services and Walsall Mind & Body Centre who provided free hand reflexology on the day. Approximately 50 individuals engaged in the event and we had over 20 evaluations that were all positive.

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Some of the comments included: ‘Met a lot of people and learnt about services I wasn’t even aware about’ ‘Excellent event, good job to the team’ ‘Very good, keep going’

4.4.7 Our Community The CDW team are working with residents in Palfrey Walsall to help increase community cohesion and wellbeing. The residents have felt that communities within the locality and surrounding areas do not integrate with each other as much as they would like and with mental health being a prominent issue the residents are now looking to address these issues themselves by formulating a community group and developing a number of initiatives.

The team arranged a launch event to introduce ‘Our Community’ in March. The aim was to bring local people and local organisations together within one neutral environment to launch this new initiative. Supported and hosted by Palfrey Surestart centre the event provided a number of free activities including a laughter yoga session by Maggie Thompson who has supported Trust events throughout 2014, a parenting skills talk and sewing activity sourced by UK IAM, the first religious body to support the community initiative and free health checks provided by Larvic

Pharmacy. The community came together to source all these activities for free. Healthwatch also supported the event by donating funds to provide light refreshments and Pathways 4 Life, Walsall Mobile Library and Mindful Gifts also provided their time and resources.

The turnout was better than expected as we exceeded reaching over a 100 attendees. Comments from service providers and event goers included:

‘What an amazing turn-out, well done’ ‘I loved the laughter yoga, I want to become a laughter yoga instructor myself

now’ ‘Very good event, it was fun’

4.4.8 CDW Special Interest Group Dudley Also in March, an advisory group of local community representatives met in order to evaluate the work of the CDW Team in Dudley, and to: raise an awareness of the Mental Health CDW role.

showcase work the CDWs have done.

establish how services can work together with the CDWs, and how further the CDWs may be able offer support.

establish how services can work together with the CDWs, and how further the CDWs may be able offer support.

use the findings of the consultation to plan for service delivery in 2015/16.

identify barriers that may arise/have arisen, and work toward reducing these.

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The session went well, and most attendees expressed interest in attending future meetings. These will take place on a quarterly or biannually basis. The work of the CDWs was praised. One comment made was ‘CDWs are doing awesome work’.

5. Working with Statutory Services The team also work closely with other Trust services and external agencies, in insuring that the needs of patients are met. The team: Provide cultural awareness and insight with patients Signpost to relevant agencies, and accompany patients, when and if necessary Offer links to community groups Provide translated information when required, and facilitate interpretation booking Deliver cultural competency training to staff Deliver basic mental health awareness training to Trust staff

5.1 Client Work The majority of work carried out with Trust services involves working with patients, to ensure their cultural and equality needs are met. The nature of work along with a breakdown of client data can be found in section 3. At present referrals are made to the team via telephone or email.

5.2 Workshops Raising Awareness of Prevent Prevent is one of the four parts of the Government’s counter terrorism strategy, named CONTEST. The other areas are Pursue, Protect and Prepare. The aims of Prevent are to respond to the ideological challenge faced from terrorism and extremism. Training is offered which provides practical help to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism and ensure they are given appropriate advice and support. Awareness of the Prevent strategy within NHS trusts is being raised through the delivery of a workshop entitled Health WRAP. The training is aimed at aimed at any NHS staff to make them aware of their role in preventing radicalisation of vulnerable people. All frontline staff will receive this training which is facilitated by the CDW team, and up to date, this has been delivered to 396 members of staff. An awareness leaflet has been created and this was distributed to all staff in October.

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5.3 Cultural Competence Training In addition mental health awareness, the team deliver Cultural Competency training to staff. This involves an introduction to culture, and incorporates faith, alongside exercises referring to the Trust’s Cultural Guide and Toolkit. Sessions are delivered in both Dudley and Walsall, with recent delegates including newly qualified nurses, staff from the Early Access Service and Early Intervention. The training is currently being updated, and in addition to delivering to staff, will be presented to community groups. A cultural competency reminders checklist has also been distributed to staff, primarily those in acute services, a copy of this can be found in appendix 10.9.

5.4 Welfare Drop-In A CDW started working alongside the Primary Care Team based at Kingshill Centre, to provide monthly drop-ins to individuals who access their service. The drop-in is aimed at individuals who are suffering from a mental illness and may need additional support with completing forms, making a benefit claim or finding out what benefit they may be eligible to claim. Service users are able to book an hour session with a CDW team member each month, through their CPN or by phoning the Kingshill reception. The booked sessions started in October and have been very successful, proving to be of great benefit to those who have attended. The scheme was piloted for six months and has now been extended for another six months due to its success. The majority of the clients who are seen require support around a benefit claim, as frequently they are unaware that they can make a claim, as they are off work due to their mental illness. At times they may need additional support with putting in a claim or they may not understand what they are entitled to. The drop-in is hugely beneficial for service users that suffer from social anxiety, as they may find attending main stream services a bit intimidating, as a result they end up losing out on benefits they are entitled to. The Primary Care team has been very supportive of these sessions and comment that it is working very well for the service users so far. Feedback from the Enhanced Primary Care Team has been very positive, praising the CDW For their work and support. Kerry Baggott, Clinical Lead for the team quoted: ‘The welfare sessions provided by Lorien have been a welcomed addition to our service and is valued by service users and staff alike. It’s particularly useful to have a practitioner with the welfare background and knowledge who also understands the mental health difficulties that our service users experience. It is a service that we cannot get from anywhere else’.

5.5 Improving Services

5.5.1 Religious Items on Trust Wards During recent Cultural Awareness sessions delivered, the lack of religious items present on Trust wards was highlighted. Although there are prayer facilities in the larger hospitals adjacent to Bushey Fields and Dorothy Pattison Hospital (in Walsall), the spaces within the Trust hospital themselves are often inaccessible to patients. When a patient wishes to attend the facility, most often a member of staff needs to accompany them, and due to low staff numbers, this is not always possible.

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Working together with the Equality and Diversity lead, the CDWs identified the varied religions present on wards. Then through consultation with religious leaders, the team obtained prayer books, mats and other artefacts that could be kept on each ward, increasing accessibility to patients. When presenting the boxed items to wards, a member of the CDW Team indicated correct

usage and storage, though brief presentations to staff. Although each ward was presented the same number of items, if additional artefacts are required, staff are able to contact the team, who would then try to source this for them. The religious items have received positive feedback from patients who are

now able to pray, should they wish to, in their own rooms. In April, The Open Space room at the Henry Lautch Centre, Bushey Fields Hospital, and the Multi Faith Room, Dorothy Pattison Hospital, were re-launched. Both spaces are intended for the quiet reflection of patients and staff. They can also be used as a religious space (religious books are available). 5.5.2 Festivals and Holy Days Calendar For 2015, the CDWs created a calendar marking holidays, holy periods and festivals across many different religions. This was distributed to all wards in the Trust, and is also available on the website www.dwmh.nhs.uk/cdw. 5.5.3 Birch Older Adults Day Unit This is a day hospital based at Bushey Fields Hospital, which works with older adult patients. Referrals are made to the unit from GPs and the Older Adults Community Mental Health Team. It was identified that the Minority Ethnic uptake of this service was extremely low. As a result of this the CDW Team have worked alongside the team manager, exploring ways to increase this number.

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Following a discussion, it was suggested that the team would promote the service amongst their community groups. This will be part of the Dementia Awareness Raising Sessions that are being delivered. The CDWs have worked with the Communications Department (who have updated the old fashioned flyer), and the leaflet has now been translated into Urdu, Punjabi and Gujarati. This leaflet will be distributed to existing and new groups, to promote the service. In addition, GP’s will be reintroduced to the services on offer, and the Older Adults CMHT will be explored to see if their Ethnic Minority representation mirrors that of Birch Unit.

5.6 Translation and Interpretation Working alongside the Equality and Diversity Lead, the team facilitate the Trust’s Interpretation and Translation requirements. They have demonstrated the process of booking interpreters through Pearl Linguistics, and are also available to ensure any problems that may occur are rectified. As a result of CDW intervention, telephone interpreting, for example when booking patient appointments, have increased. In addition the team hold a bank of translated patient information leaflets, including information on mental health conditions, medications and self-help methods, which are distributed on request, to relevant teams. 5.6.1 Patient Information Leaflet The team patient information leaflet is available in several community languages (Urdu, Punjabi, Guajarati, Bengali, Polish and Czech) and provides not only information on how the team can be contacted, but also on some signs and symptoms of mental health, and the 5 Ways to Wellbeing.

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5.6.2 Black and Minority Ethnic Wellbeing Booklet The CDW team have compiled a mental health wellbeing guide, which condenses information available in other self-help booklets, along with useful guides, such as the five ways to wellbeing, eating healthily and relaxation methods. The booklet contains a snapshot of common mental health problems, with simple but effective guides on how you can manage these conditions. The guide covers depression and low mood, stress, anxiety and panic attacks. In order to reach minority ethnic communities, it has been translated into Arabic, Urdu, Hindi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Bengali and Chinese.

5.7 CDW for Engagement and Experience The CDW for Engagement and Experience has been working to analyse the needs of the populations of Dudley and Walsall, some of the work carried out, and planned includes: A Youth Mental Health forum is being developed, with input from the Clinical

Commissioning Group.

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A quarterly Mental Health Forum, which receives a very high attendance takes place alternatively between Dudley and Walsall. This forum has been created by the CDW for EE. The themes during the last year were:

Spring - Employment Support and Primary Care Summer - Medicines Management Autumn - Carers Winter - Personality Disorders and Psychological Therapies

Using data from the National Community Mental Health Survey, areas which require improvement are identified, and improvements actioned. Medicines Management are offered through liaison with the Pharmacy Team.

The CDW provides support for the Experts by Experience. Working with the Experts by Experience, a standardised Information pack is being

rolled out across all service areas, for the benefit of Patients, Staff and Carers. This includes useful and appropriate information such as local groups, courses and activities.

The CDW for Engagement and Experience, working together with Insight Carers Café in Dudley, and the Carers Support Service in Walsall, Carer Surveys have been completed, in relation to the Triangle of Care. A result of this has meant the Trust received its 1st Tick, in Carer Compliance.

This demonstrates the high importance carer’s are, in a patient’s recovery.

5.8 CDW Team Volunteer The team welcomed its first volunteer in October, and she is a qualified counsellor, with experience of delivering CBT to young people. Currently she is working with the CDWs in Walsall, supporting them with a range of projects, including wellbeing and awareness raising sessions, where her bilingual skills have also been utilised.

6. Research Projects 6.1 The Mental Health and Wellbeing of New Arrival Migrant Communities A CDW undertook some research looking at the mental health of migrants. The full report is available from the CDW Team. With the increasing arrival of migrants in Walsall over the last few years, a survey was carried out mainly to establish and address mental health stigma and health inequalities with in these particular communities. New arrivals encompass EU nationals, refugees and asylum seekers and those with no recourse to public funds. Barriers such as language and stigma still remains an issue when new migrants access health services in addition, there is also the fear of being refused support.

The aims of this research were to: identify barriers and gaps in provision that prevent new migrants from accessing and

engaging with services within the Walsall borough. highlight and address stigma and mental health inequalities with new arrival groups. identify services most access by new communities. inform on the experiences and performances of new communities. Some of the barriers encountered include access to public funds, stigma, prejudice, and a lack of understanding from health services. Some GP receptionists are not familiar with the

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terms refugee or asylum seekers, and their entitlements. This confusion often occurs by both parties involved, and is exacerbated by language barriers. Asylum seekers may also not be unaware that they might be entitled to free prescriptions and those with limited English will find it difficult to complete the forms required to receive free prescriptions. Ideally, doctors should help patients understand whether or not they are entitled to free prescriptions, direct them to the relevant forms that is required and where it can be obtained.

7. Evidence of Positive Contribution and Feedback Feedback is regularly received by the team, when working with communities, delivering training or supporting patients and clients. Examples of this can be seen in the relvent sections of this report. Some additional feedback includes:

‘It was wonderful to see the attendance and atmosphere and my manager was really impressed so I owe you a thank you. Well done!! All the hard work really well paid off!’

Having groups like these encourages people like me with arthritis and depression to leave the house’

Its great to get out of the house and meet people and learn new things’ ‘It’s nice to feel cared about’

In relation to wellbeing sessions that were delivered, some more detailed feedback has included: ‘You very kindly attended a wellbeing day we ran for department managers in Sainsburys. The managers found the information very useful, as they often struggle to know how to deal with colleagues who experience mental health conditions in the workplace. I would definitely recommend other organisations to use your services to highlight what is available for their staff/colleagues’. Occupational Health and Wellbeing Partner, Sainsbury’s. ‘The training our organisation received from your team was very useful in introducing colleagues to the Five ways to Wellbeing concept, talking openly about mental health and enabling them to take away practical ways to look after their own health. I found the sessions very useful for our organisation, and something we are continuing to build on. I would most definitely recommend this type of training for others’. Equality and Diversity Manager, Walsall Housing Group.

Feedback was also made via the Trust’s Twitter account. ‘Great talking to @DWbetter2gether 'Pyari Sangat' Asian Ladies MH Support Group(Alumwell) about home fire safety today pic.twitter.com/ZTVZDJbtYN’ The work of the CDW Team has been recognised both internally and regionally. In the DWMH Recognising Success Staff Awards the CDW

Team were runners up for the Support Services Team of the Year Award. The team were recognised for their success in working with communities and supporting teams to work effectively in culturally competent ways.

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In the first awards of this kind, the Asian Fire Service Awards, the team were nominated for Addressing Health Inequalities. Other nominees in this category included Fire and Rescue Services, and Neighbourhood Estates. In December, the CDW for Engagement and Experience won a regional NHS Recognition Award for the work she has carried out with the Trust's Experts by Experience, in the category of NHS Patient Champion of the Year. Tracy has helped the EBE's to shape services through drop-in sessions and ward visits. Commenting on her award Tracy said ‘Giving patients a voice is at the heart of everything we do, and I’m so pleased that this award recognises the great work that our Experts by Experience do to improve the experience of mental health services for patients’. CDW Manager, and Equality and Diversity Lead also won an award at the event in the category of NHS Leader of Inclusivity. Community Creations even featured as an article in a local newspaper:

St Paul's Church in Blackheath has launched an inter-faith group to improve community cohesion. The new women's craft group, which is called Community Creations, is open to women from all religions and ethnic groups. Dudley and Walsall Mental Health NHS Partnership Trust awarded the group a £2589.85 grant from the Near Neighbours fund.

The group meet every Wednesday from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at St Paul's Church Hall, Vicarage Road. Reverend Kathy Evans and Iram Maan are running the club which aims to encourage women to learn new skills, make friends and improve their wellbeing. Graham Roberts, from the church, said: "The Near Neighbours initiative is supported by Central Government and is specifically designed with the purpose of enabling new relationships to form across diverse communities. ‘This has run successfully for the last three years in a handful of areas and has only recently been extended to the Black Country and is exciting for St Paul's to be part of this important work’. ‘I attended this event and it was great to see the work they was doing and how it broke down barriers between the faiths. I wish all the best with this group and many more who do similar projects’. Cllr Henley

8. Conclusion

This report details some of the work carried out by the CDW Team over the past 12 months. It highlights the key achievements, research projects and individual client support. More detailed reports are available from the CDW Team, and every quarter a Newsletter (examples can be found in the appendix) to provide an overview of recent work is published. The newsletter, along with more information about services, the Team, Equality and Diversity can be found on the internet page wwww.dwmh.nsh.uk/cdw.

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In both boroughs, the team attend relevant multi agency meetings, to keep abreast of recent developments, and to ensure the team can offer the best range of services to clients. Networks have been made and are regularly maintained, as evidenced in the signposts made, and the partnership working which takes place. In 2015-16, the CDW’s will continue to provide this excellent level of service.

9. Recommendations Based on past work, current themes and feedback, key priorities for the CDW Team have been identified, and will be added to the team action plan. These key areas of work are: Working with young BME Carers, to ensure they are able to get the right help and

support, and allow them to take a break from their caring duties, with the involvement of external organisations.

Dementia awareness is lacking in minority ethnic communities, and the team plan on

changing this. Through a variety of methods including, DVD workshops, training sessions and regular drop ins, the team will work with these communities to raise awareness, and inform them of how to get the help they need. External agencies including Alzheimer’s Society, and Dementia Gateway Workers, alongside professionals from Older Adults will be used where appropriate.

Suicide awareness in South Asian women will also be addressed, through groups that

are already being set up, as an avenue for attendees to share and learn. By raising awareness of mental health conditions, and of where to access help, it is hoped that individuals will be able to speak to professionals and get support.

The team will be working with the local Polish Community, to set up a support group in

Walsall. There is a need for such groups, as presently even with large populations, no support is available. By working alongside community leaders, these groups will allow Polish people to be more informed of mental health and have a place where they can go to be empowered.

The mental health needs of the Polish Community in Dudley will also be addressed, and in a recent health needs assessment stress and depression was found to be the highest priority health need.

Cultural Awareness training and awareness sessions will be rolled out to staff more regularly, to ensure the Trust is aware of the different cultures who may access services. An update to this training is underway.

There is a lack on mental health awareness in BME groups, and often this means that

they are unable to get help early (self-help, talking therapies, access to suitable groups).the CDWs will be attending community venues including places of worship and day centres, in order to provide mental health awareness training.

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Work with the Bengali Community in Dudley, in promoting mental health awareness and access to services, in addition to a longer term mental health project will take place.

Links will be forged with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau in Dudley, to increase referrals from this organisation, and allow further signposting in these austere times.

Drop-ins or mental health awareness at food banks will be trialled, and the team already have links with this organisation. This will allow the team to provide awareness and signposting to individuals and families, who may have very low mental wellbeing.

Promotional material which is more accessible will be developed, for example in the form of postcards, which contain information and advice, but not necessarily the term ‘Mental Health.’

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10. Appendix 10.1 Community Development Worker Team Structure 2014-2015

Gurwinder Paul Singh Equality and Diversity Lead

&

CDW Team Manager

Kuldeep Singh CDW Team Co-ordinator /

Senior CDW

Tracy Cross CDW Engagement

& Experience

Iram Maan

CDW Dudley

Michelle Raouf

CDW Dudley

Anita Chumber

CDW Walsall

Lorien Haye

CDW Walsall

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10.2 Annual Statistical Summary - Dudley

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10.3 Annual Contact Summary - Walsall

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10.4 Client Contact Pathway - Dudley

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10.5 Client Contact Pathway - Walsall

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10.6 Client Contact Form (Internal)

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10.7 Community Development Worker Patient Information Leaflet

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10.8 CDW Newsletters 2014-2015

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10.9 Cultural Competency Reminders

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Community Development Workers (01384) 366517 / 324640

[email protected] www.dwmh.nhs.uk/cdw