Issue 9
Adapting our services during COVID-19
Dr Ellie explains how the pandemic is affecting our mental health
Summer 2020
Welcome
Dear Friends The words ‘look after your mental health’ have taken on a deeper meaning for everyone over the past few months and we have spent much time sharing best practices for doing just that with you and with the entire community. However, as I write this at the early stages of lockdown lifting, I’ve been asking myself, “Are we ready for the impact of this pandemic?” We have already seen an increase in the number of referrals for our services. Jami’s social workers and occupational therapists reported a 55% increase in hours spent supporting people, with a 29% increase in the number of people being supported on a one to one basis (compared to pre-COVID-19 levels), and these numbers will only increase. As a community we have gained a better understanding of mental health, with glimpses of what some people living with mental illness face every day. I delivered a meal to an isolated service user at the beginning of lockdown who said, “This is nothing new to me, for 35 years I have been feeling like this”. If I look at the positive impact of the last few months, I can see how resilient Jami is and how quickly we have adapted to providing mental health interventions and support in ways we’d never have believed possible, or necessary. So yes, we are ready for this next step. Keep well and stay safe.
Laurie Rackind Chief Executive
PS In this issue of Headlines you will read more about how we have adapted Jami services. None of this could be done without the amazing effort of our volunteers and staff. I am proud to lead Jami and I am incredibly grateful for your continued support.
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Volunteer Emma Reynolds, Jami’s Compeer Volunteering Manager, talks about the vital role of our volunteers during the pandemic and our new befriending programme. For the past few months, our wonderful volunteers at Jami have been more important than ever. With people more isolated and vulnerable and their anxiety and stress levels increased, Jami’s professional team have transitioned core services and hubs online and our committed and dedicated volunteers have played a key role in facilitating this move. Volunteers have helped ensure the people using our services can continue to access help and support in different ways throughout lockdown, becoming volunteer facilitators for virtual groups via Zoom; delivering tablets and tech support to get users online; and delivering hot meals alongside a friendly doorstep chat to ensure those most vulnerable feel less lonely and isolated. We have also recently launched Jami’s Compeer befriending programme. Through a 1:1 match, Compeer seeks to combine friendship with practical support and activities within the community to reduce loneliness and isolation and promote better wellbeing. Through planned activities within pairs, Compeer volunteers can help their match build confidence, self-esteem and motivation. Activities could include accompanying your match to an appointment, helping with shopping, gardening or exercise, as well as ensuring social interaction, which could be going for a coffee together or to the cinema. These relationships will begin over the phone and move to face-to-face once social distancing restrictions are lifted. If you would be interested in volunteering for Jami’s Compeer befriending programme, please contact Emma Reynolds at emma.reynolds@jamiuk.org to find out more.
Volunteers enjoying Jami's annual Tea Party and Q&A session with our leadership team
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Service Update Louise Kermode, Head of Services, talks about how we have adapted and responded to the pandemic. We are all facing unprecedented uncertainty, fear, panic, isolation, financial insecurity, disruption to our roles and routine, but the impact on people already living with mental illness, who have little or no social and/or financial resources, is exponentially higher. Our initial response to the COVID-19 social distancing measures was to not only protect those at risk of the virus, but also those people at risk of being isolated. Many people using Jami’s services do not have other support systems in place and already struggle with having their most basic needs met. For some, our Hubs are about having a safe place to go, a place to belong, to connect with others and to have a hot meal. A place to get practical and emotional support for day to day issues that can be overwhelming for people living with distress, illness and disability. After closing the hub doors we quickly responded to the needs of the most isolated by delivering meals and taking the opportunity to have a doorstep chat at a two-metre distance. This was never just about meeting a basic need but - as with all meals at Jami – about connection, belonging, sharing something with others and crucially, social interaction.
“It makes me feel that someone is there for me, that someone will know if anything is wrong with me, makes me feel loved and cared about.” We organised telephone support for everyone we would usually have face to face contact with, as well as for new referrals coming into the service. These support calls have been a lifeline for many. Within a short space of time following lockdown, the Hub activity programme, Head Room Café Wellbeing sessions, Head Room education
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courses, Carer support groups and Fitness sessions were all adapted to an online format. Tablets and remote IT support have been provided to enable people to connect with us, each other, and a whole host of online resources in a meaningful way. Following our initial crisis response, and in anticipation of the increase in demand for mental health services due to the direct and indirect impact of the pandemic, we continue to explore new ways of delivering services. We have adapted our assessment tool (IROC) to be used in a virtual space, are using video conferencing to support people with life skills, routine and creating structure. New recovery focused groups have been introduced by the community team to support people with similar experiences in small virtual groups, for example, ‘living with depression’ and ‘managing anxiety’. Our new Compeer friendship service is connecting people online and by phone to combat loneliness and forge meaningful relationships during the pandemic. The aim is to be able to connect in person once it is safe to do so. The speed and agility with which we have turned our focus to creating and enabling online connections is inspiring and has also highlighted how beneficial these services are for people who are housebound with significant mental and physical health needs. We are committed to continuing delivering services that are accessible for those who need them long after we have said goodbye to COVID-19. For the latest news follow us on Twitter @JamiPeople and Facebook @JAMIMentalHealth or visit jamiuk.org/news
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Q&A with Dr Ellie Dr Ellie Cannon is a doctor, author and broadcaster, known for her health pages in the Mail on Sunday. She is also a Jami Trustee.
Tell us a bit about yourself I’m a GP in north London where I live with my family. I grew up in Newcastle upon Tyne but came to London after medical school and qualified as a GP just after my second child was born. I have also been what is known as a ‘media doctor’, writing and broadcasting on all health topics, with a weekly page in the Mail on Sunday and am the regular doctor on LBC, Sky news and Channel 5 news. I have written two books, one of which is about mental illness as a result of work, ‘Is Your Job Making You Ill?’. What does it mean to you to be involved in Jami? I have a great deal of experience of mental health issues both personally and professionally, so I have a vested interest in Jami being successful and thriving! I see my involvement as an enormous responsibility to take mental health support forward and ensure the mental health conversation remains relevant to those suffering and the most vulnerable who we need to advocate for. I do feel it
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is particularly important within the Jewish community where there is, in my opinion, still disparity between mental health and other causes. How do you think the current pandemic will affect the mental health sector? Unfortunately I think the impact will be felt in a multitude of ways. For some people, mental health has improved during lockdown - with the lack of social pressure and the anxiety and difficulties that can bring. But for the majority, mental health has taken a hard hit with new diagnoses, worsening pre-existing diagnoses and therapy and treatment on hold or changed. We will also have to face the mental illness surge that will come from the economic downturn, job losses and poorer standard of living. Mental health (just like physical health) is inextricably linked to wealth and if we plunge into a recession post COVID-19, the sector will be hit hard. What is the most important thing that people can do to look after their mental health?
Build relationships. Having a friend, an ally or even one consistent relationship is tremendously protective of our mental health. In various psychological models of disease we see strong relationships or a lack thereof - as being so relevant. Within the workplace, data shows that people who have an ally at work or feel supported by a colleague or manager can cope far better with stress, disappointment and high pressure. What are your priorities as a trustee of Jami? Really I have two. Firstly, to ensure the conversation stays relevant to those most vulnerable. The mental health dialogue can be hijacked as a soundbite or dare I say a trend, but we need to keep our focus on those service users whose stories are not told, but whose needs are most.
Secondly, I would like what Jami does recognised as treatment – everything Jami does from vocational support to occupational therapy is treatment for mental illness. It is just as important as medicine and therapy.
Privacy Policy Update We review our Privacy Policy on a regular basis to make sure it's still up-to-date with our data practices and ensure it meets the latest requirements provided by law. The effective date of our latest updated Privacy Policy is 30 June 2020 and you can review it on our website jamiuk.org/privacy These latest changes have been made to make it easier to understand the information we collect and use. They also clarify that if we ever need to send data to a third party for processing, they are bound to take care of your data in the same way we do. Please rest assured that Jami will never sell your details to any third party. You don’t need to do anything to accept these changes, they will automatically become active from end June 2020, but you can update your contact preferences at any time by calling us on 020 8458 2223, emailing us on info@jamiuk.org or writing to us at The Data Controller, Jami, Martin B Cohen Centre, Gould Way, Deansbrook Road, Edgware HA8 9GL.
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Get involved A huge thank you and Mazeltov to all those who have fundraised for Jami If you would like friends and family to donate to Jami on your behalf for a Simcha or occasion, please call Jami on 020 8458 2223 or email laura.bahar@jamiuk.org
Birthdays Jacqui Alpern Dr Martin Aaron Mark Rubinson Raymond Harris Rudy Hudson
Anniversaries Stephanie & Martin Miller Jennifer and Keith Roberts
Wedding Denise and David Lester
Challenge & Sports Events Maccabi GB Fun Run @ Home Josh, Muriel, Amie and Jack Abeles Laura, Russell and Ruby Bahar Caroline Cowan Ian Davis (54 km run) Michael Fierstone Jacquelyn Guderley Tracy Jacobs Ashley Phillips Lisa Specterman Karen, Rob and Leo Wilson 7
40 km cycle ride Michael Fierstone 100 mile walk Sarah (Sybil) Schiller 100 km run, Barmitzvah Challenge Yuval Jacobs 5 km Swimathon Tanya Coppel Press up challenge Einav Ansher James Ansher Penny Low Nikki Benjamin Michelle Rosenberg Oriel Sandler Bake off Challenge Circle of Eight
Tzedakah Projects Kerem School Inside Out Project King Solomon School Purim Tzedakah
Corporate Giving Sawyer Fielding
I was challenged by my friend to raise awareness for mental health. This was to do 25 press-ups for 25 days and challenge other people who also raise money and create awareness. I chose Jami as the support they offer all year round is phenomenal and the dedication is outstanding. Einav Ansher Press up challenge
To be able to run for Jami - a wonderful organisation that is making a difference in such an important way - is a privilege.
Jami is such a worthwhile and necessary charity at the moment because it saves lives. I have seen the fabulous work they do with my own eyes.
Ian Davis Maccabi GB Fun Run @ Home (54 km run)
Sarah (Sybil) Schiller 100 mile walk
Seeing the reach Jami has across the UK and the fundamental support and education that they provide, was eye opening. Jonathan Nesbitt – Sawyer Fielding
If the shoe fits‌ RUN FOR JAMI 25 April 2021 The London Marathon is taking place on 25 April 2021. To apply for a Jami place or for another challenge event please get in touch by emailing muriel.stempel@jamiuk.org 8
Day in the Jami life This issue we hear from Jami’s Education Manager, Philippa Carr, who tells us about her team’s work during this strange time, as well as her work co-ordinating the community's initiative to respond to a suicide or traumatic death of a school student. Readers may find it helpful to note that this article contains references to suicide and suicide prevention.
My day begins with a workout with my eldest daughter. She recently qualified as a personal trainer and enjoys putting me through my paces, which raises my energy levels and gets me prepared for the day ahead. After this I can switch to work mode, which I start by checking my emails and reaching out to colleagues. During COVID-19, Head Room Education has seen an increased demand for psycho-education and training for the workplace and those in furlough, as well as the wider community. I created a new interactive webinar on ‘Burnout and Work Life Balance’ which has been well received by a diverse audience, and whilst facilitating I have been really inspired by people’s stories of both challenge and resilience and how they are managing in this current climate. As well as delivering webinars and facilitating online groups, I bring together our team of 9
Peer Trainers, who work with Jami’s Peer Support Workers, to deliver our Head Room in the Hub sessions. Peer Support Workers use their own lived experience of mental illness to support other people’s recovery and inspire hope. With Emma Dorman, our Senior Education Co-ordinator, I will listen to how their work is going, learn alongside them and support them to create new sessions. I also co-ordinate the Emergency Response Initiative Consortium (ERIC), a group of community organisation partners who have come together to provide a co-ordinated response in the event of a sudden traumatic death of a school student. We have created an in-depth guide for schools and in the autumn will be holding online briefing sessions for senior leaders and other members of school teams. Although it’s difficult even to think about this matter, it is important to have systems in place
New programme highlights:
Back to Routine
“Shall I Be Mother?”
Join us to explore what we can take with us from our experience of lockdown into our new normal and how we can put in place strategies for supporting young people returning to the challenges and opportunities of everyday life.
Mothers with ‘children’ of all ages are invited to join us to explore, reframe and take inspiration from each other for this interactive session that will use creative techniques alongside discussion.
Tuesdays, 8th & 15th September 7.30pm – 9.00pm via Zoom
Tuesdays, 3rd & 10th November 7.30 – 9.00pm via Zoom.
so that should a tragedy occur, schools can respond effectively and work with ERIC to provide comfort and support. We have trained a group of First Responders who can be called upon to support both students and staff should they be needed. Part of this project is to provide hope and education so that we can work towards preventing student suicide. We are all very proud of this initiative.
Head Room Education prospectus which will be available soon and I hope that you might be tempted to enrol in some of our amazing online courses. And of course, once it is safe to do so, we will be back with face-to-face learning too. To receive the new Head Room prospectus drop us an email to headroom@jamiuk.org
The hours I work vary depending on whether I’m working in the evening, but with our programme now online it is much easier to build in time with my family or unwind by reading or listening to a podcast from The New Yorker, one of my new lockdown finds! I have worked at Jami for over five years and every day I’m grateful to be part of such a dedicated group of people. I am in the process of putting together our 2020/21
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Legacies Please consider supporting the mental health of future generations through a legacy Leaving a gift to Jami in your will, once you have considered the needs of family and loved ones, can help ensure that support remains available for those struggling with mental illness now and in the future. Jami is making a significant impact on reducing stigma around mental health in our community, empowering communities to support their members and ensuring people can access vital support.
Remembering Rosemary Rosemary White was a supporter of Jami for many years following the sad loss of her two sons, Richard and Nicholas. Despite these bereavements having an impact on her life, Rosemary was a colourful character full of vivacity and led a very active life in later years applying her strong intellect to playing bridge. A few years ago Rosemary funded an art therapy room at the Share Tzedek hospital,
Israel in memory of her sons. She was always a generous donor to many charities. A major part of her will has been gifted to Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue and to Jami. Rosemary's many friends will remember her with fondness and respect and with gratitude to have known her. Her legacy will enable Jami to continue supporting the mental health needs of our community for many more years. Thank you, Rosemary, may your memory be a blessing.
A lasting impact on mental health If you have any questions about remembering Jami in your Will, please contact liz.jessel@jamiuk.org or phone 020 8458 2223. 11
Registered Charity 1003345.
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Brought to you by
Jami.Kooth.com Free, safe and anonymous online counselling and support for students Jami’s online mental wellbeing community, created just for students Talk to us free of charge, 365 days a year Private one to one support via message or live chat with our online counselling team Discussion boards and live forums with our friendly Jami Kooth community, 24/7
“I finally feel academically and mentally confident to live the life that I want”
Helpful articles, personal experiences, advice and tips from young people and our experts
Visit www.Jami.Kooth.com
– Evelyn, 18 years old Registered charity no. 1003345. A company limited by guarantee. Registered in London no. 2618170
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Head Room Wellbeing Programme Over the past few months we have been finding ways to continue building our community, supporting each other and having some fun. Our online café is a space for connection, mutual support and creativity. Make yourself a cuppa and join in as much as you like, everyone is welcome.
MON
TUE
WED
Peer Support Group 11AM-12PM
Kind Co-working 11AM-1PM
Creativity4All 2-3PM
Share your experiences and hear from others in a non-judgmental, friendly space. We begin with short guided meditations followed by a sharing circle, then reflect on some of the themes and offer mutual support.
Struggling to work alone? Drop by our meeting with any projects you are working on – an essay, job application, creative work or even your ironing! Optional check in and activities to boost your focus - with Sarit Gafan.
Join us to explore your creativity. Using any art supplies you have, draw, write, paint or make a collage. Everyone is welcome, whatever your experience, however you are feeling.
THUR
FRI
Kind Co-working 11AM-1PM
Peer Support Group 2PM-3PM
Struggling to work alone? Drop by our meeting with any projects you are working on – an essay, job application, creative work or even your ironing! Optional check in and activities to boost your focus - with Sarit Gafan.
Share your experiences and hear from others in a non-judgmental, friendly space. We begin with short guided meditations followed by a sharing circle, then reflect on some of the themes and offer mutual support.
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For the latest information please check our website headroomcafe.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @headroomcafe Please join us and help spread the word!
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Please return this form to: Jami, Martin B. Cohen Centre for Wellbeing, Gould Way, Edgware HA8 9GL 12 To donate online please go to jamiuk.org/donate
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Currently almost 1300 people experiencing mental ill health are using Jami services at any one time. As a result of the recent pandemic, this number is increasing. We are almost solely reliant on the support of the community to fund our work - please help us ensure we can provide this vital support for everyone.
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£10 enables someone to take part in a befriending session
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£75 provides 13 meals with a doorstep chat for vulnerable people, ensuring human contact is maintained
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£25 pays for a carer of someone with depression to attend a virtual support group
£50 pays for two people to attend a seminar on managing burnout
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£125 pays for one Occupational Therapy session to help someone manage their illness
£250 buys one tablet and a 30-minute support session on how to use technology, ensuring people remain connected
To donate, please complete and return the form overleaf, donate online at jamiuk.org/donate or call us on 020 8458 2223
Registered Charity 1003345. A Company Limited by Guarantee 2618170
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