Thousands helped by new mental health scheme

The Psychological Wellbeing Service was launched by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust only four months ago to help those suffering from stress, anxiety and depression.

Previously patients had to be referred by their GPs. But in September people were allowed the opportunity to refer themselves to the service following investment from commissioners.

They can still be referred by their doctor.

On Monday, (January 18), the 5,000th patient began receiving help from the service - just 20 weeks after it was launched. There were 2,374 patients who self-referred while the remainder were referrals from doctors and other health professionals.

In December alone, 1,008 people entered treatment. When first launched, the service was set a target of just under 1,000 people a month, but clinicians did not expect to hit that figure so soon.

Dr James Clarke, service lead for the Psychological Wellbeing Service, said: “We are pleased that we have been able to help so many people already.

“We knew that previously that it may have been a big step for people to visit their doctor and say they want help with their mental health.

“We’ve removed that barrier now, and we’re glad that so many people have come forward already.”

Anyone registered with a GP in the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough area can access the Psychological Wellbeing Service by completing an online form that can be found on the Trust’s website www.cpft.nhs.uk.

They will be then be contacted by someone from the Trust and talked through the options available to them.

Alternatively, the service can be contacted by calling 0300 300 0055.