Step forward for mental health services in North Somerset

PositiveStep, a mental health service for people in North Somerset, celebrated its official launch last week.

Staff from Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP) and the three partner organisations that make up PositiveStep gathered for the event at The For All Healthy Living Centre in Weston-super-Mare. They were joined by other healthcare professionals and visitors who had the opportunity to learn more about the service and try out some of the computerized Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) programmes available.

PositiveStep manager Sarah Branton said, “Since the service began it has received over 2000 referrals. We have got off to a good start and over the next few years will be developing to ensure therapies and support are really accessible to the diverse population of North Somerset.”
Provided through GP surgeries, PositiveStep offers Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) based courses, where people learn new positive approaches to their situations, group educational sessions, individual therapy and advice about self help.

GP lead for mental health in North Somerset Alison Lerant said, “I have received really positive feedback from my patients about the courses PositiveStep run. The service has improved access to essential support and is raising awareness of common mental health problems, providing education about looking after mental wellbeing.”

PositiveStep began earlier this year and is run by AWP with Second Step, Atos Healthcare and NHS Direct. Commissioned by NHS North Somerset, PositiveStep offers treatment and services to people with common mental health and emotional difficulties.
Welcoming the new service, Chris Born, Chief Executive of NHS North Somerset said, “When I first came to North Somerset over three years ago, the message I got most frequently was the need to improve mental health service in primary care. I am very pleased we found such a good partnership to provide this service for local people. Now more than ever, people need this kind of help and treatment.”

Visit the PositiveStep website at www.positivestep.net for more information.