MC Magazine - Spring 2024

I’M NOT AS WELL AS I THOUGHT I

MC

11

WORRY MONSTERS

Why a small toy is making a big difference to vulnerable children.

06

WE DID IT!

The Ugochukwu Chinelo family have had their measles jab – has your child?

30 A GOOD BOOK

Would you tell your personal story to someone you don’t know? Find out why volunteers are becoming living ‘books’ for others to ‘read’.

MC magazine team:

Managing Editor: Steve Murphy.

Editor: Jackie Rankin.

Contributors: Joanne Fairclough, Jo Henwood, Annette Hurst, Steve Murphy, Emma Wilson.

Editorial: Julie Crompton, Joanne Cunningham.

Photography: Freepik.com, Joel Goodman, Jessica Parry.

Design: Jo Hadfield.

Cover: Comedian Ruby Wax

Story on page 18.

©Charlie Clift

MEMBERSHIP AND GENERAL DATA PROTECTION

25

DON’T STOP ME NOW

Ever thought of running a marathon? Neither had Clare. She tells of the challenges and shares the energy boosting salad recipe that keeps her going.

You can contact us at: communications@merseycare.nhs.uk

MerseyCareNHSFoundationTrust

@Mersey_Care

@MerseyCareNHSFT

3 WELCOME

4 THE DANGEROUS DIP

6 GLAD WE DID IT

7 MY DAD LOST HIS SIGHT

8 BONDS OF LOVE

10 MUM’S THE WORD

11 MONSTER MUNCH

12 IT’S OK NOT TO BE OK

14 THEY WOULDN’T LISTEN TO ME

16 THE CHAMPIONS

18 BEHIND THE PAINTED SMILE

22 WE NEED YOU

25 DON’T STOP ME NOW

26 SOWING THE SEEDS

28 PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP

30 A GOOD BOOK

32 ACTS OF FAITH

34 TAKE A TIP

35 THE VOICE

REGULATION The GDPR is the General Data Protection Regulation, a European-wide law, which governs how organisations can collect, use and transfer personal data. It came into force on 25 May 2018 alongside the new Data Protection Act 2018. As a Foundation Trust, Mersey Care has a statutory requirement to develop and maintain a membership and it is necessary for us to process our members’ personal data to perform this task. Our members are drawn from the public, people who use our services or care for people who use our services and staff. We request and securely hold data on our members, which they provide when joining our membership. The data we hold on our members enables us to show that we are representative of the community we provide services for, to keep members updated through our quarterly MC magazine via email or post and to invite all members to the Annual General Meeting. We also engage with all members advising when the election for governors will be taking place, giving members the opportunity to nominate themselves to become a governor and to vote in elections for the council of governors. Should you no longer wish to be a member of Mersey Care please email ft.membership@merseycare.nhs.uk with your details or call 0151 471 2303 asking that your details be removed.

WELCOME

Have you thrown open your windows to let in fresh air yet? Spring can be unpredictable, but don’t you love those days when it’s still light well into the evening and you can feel the evening sun when you go for a walk?

As writer Leo Tolstoy said, ‘Spring is a time of plans and projects.’ We hope you find something energising in these pages.

There’s a theme in this issue – teamwork. It can be colleagues working together, professionals with those they support, or people who have lived with adversity sharing their experiences to help others.

Whatever the team it’s always better than going it alone.

We hear from Julie, whose joy comes from being able to bond with her daughter thanks to support from a special team (page 10).

In the 80s people with the virus Hepatitis C were wrongly seen as the pariahs of society. In Liverpool today perceptions –and lives – are changing because of the sheer hard work and dedication of an addiction support team (page 16).

We visited a library where the ‘books’ are real people, willing to share their personal stories to help others (page 30).

Have you had your measles jab? It’s never too late. With cases on the rise, it’s vital we play our part and protect ourselves and others. That’s teamwork.

We hope this issue puts a spring in your step!

The MC Magazine Team.

Spring is the time of plans and projects.

THE DANGEROUS DIP

By Jo Henwood

Liverpool has the lowest rate of MMR vaccination in the UK, outside London.

MChildren in Liverpool are at risk of contracting a deadly illness because of a big dip in uptake of routine vaccinations.

easles could reach epidemic levels in the city if parents miss their baby’s first MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) jab and a booster dose when they’re nursery age.

With a take up rate of both doses at just 68.6 percent, Liverpool has the lowest rate in the UK, outside London.

Nikki Wilinski, Mersey Care’s Vaccination and Immunisation Team Leader says that it is never too late to get vaccinated or receive a booster dose, and urges parents to check their child’s immunisation record, known as the Red Book, to make sure they are fully covered.

“Children tend to get the first vaccination of MMR as part of their regular 13 month baby immunisations but parents don’t always see it as a priority to get the booster jab.

“People have busy lives, and they may be back at work, so getting round to it can be more stressful.

“Age can also be a factor – the older the child, the more distressed parents think they may be. This is difficult for parents but it is very important to have both doses otherwise your child won’t have full protection from the diseases.”

One in five children in the UK who contract measles may end up in hospital and could miss about two weeks of school. Further complications can lead to blindness, ear infections, severe diarrhoea, dehydration, brain damage and even death.

It’s not just parents of babies who should be concerned. Teenagers and young people heading to music festivals this summer should be aware that these can be a hotbed for the spread of the disease, which can also cause severe breathing problems, including pneumonia.

Immunisation nurse Lynsey Watkin is part of the Mersey Care team encouraging parents to have their children immunised.

There is of course a risk of side effects to any vaccine. Common side effects to the MMR vaccination can include a fever and redness near where the needle went in, with more uncommon ones resulting in swollen lymph glands, ear infections or diarrhoea and vomiting. In very rare cases, there is a chance of a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis but all health care workers who give vaccines will carry adrenaline to administer in these cases.

If you or your child’s vaccination records are not up to date, contact your GP who should be able to arrange an appointment.

CONTROVERSY

We may be almost 30 years on from Andrew Wakefield’s controversial claims (now discredited) that there was a connection between the MMR vaccine and Crohn’s disease and the development of autism, but it is still having an impact on take up.

WHAT IS MEASLES?

A highly contagious disease caused by a virus which is spread through coughs and sneezes.

MEASLES SYMPTOMS –WHAT TO LOOK

OUT FOR

• Cold like symptoms

• Red, sore and watery eyes

• Sensitivity to light

• High temperature

• Greyish white spots in the mouth and throat

A red brown rash usually appears a few days later, spreading from behind the ears to the rest of the body. This rash is easier to spot on white skin but may be more difficult to notice on brown or black skin.

Nikki said, “Those parents who were around when the claims were made are now grandparents and may be passing on their fears to their adult children.”

The possible links to autism and Crohn’s disease were investigated by Public Health England (now UK Health Security Agency) and have been proved wrong. The National Autistic Society states on its website that there is no link between autism and vaccines.

Roald Dahl’s famous BFG book is dedicated to his daughter Olivia who died, aged seven, of encephalitis or inflammation of the brain, following measles. Olivia was born in the 1950s before a reliable vaccination against the disease was available. The first measles vaccination was introduced in the UK in 1968 and UK Health Security Agency estimates that millions of cases and thousands of deaths have since been averted.

What should you do if you think your child has measles? Ask for an urgent GP appointment on the phone, call 111 or get help from 111 online: 111.nhs.uk

Don’t take your child to the GP practice or any other healthcare setting without calling ahead first, to avoid spreading the disease. Avoid close contact with babies, pregnant women, or anyone with a weakened immune system.

FURTHER INFORMATION

For independent, evidence based information about vaccines and infectious diseases visit vaccineknowledge.ox.ac.uk

FACTS AND MYTH BUSTING ABOUT THE MMR VACCINE

TIMES TWO

One dose of the vaccine as a baby will not give you 100 percent immunity to the disease and without a booster there is still a chance you can catch measles.

EGGS-ELLENT NEWS

People with egg allergies can be cautious about receiving vaccinations. There is not enough egg protein in the MMR vaccine to cause allergic reactions so people with severe egg allergies can safely receive the vaccine.

YOUR CHOICE

Some vaccines contain gelatine, which may not suit your lifestyle. You can ask your healthcare professional to provide a vaccine which does not contain gelatine.

CATCH IT WHILE YOU CAN

Before measles vaccinations were around, parents used to encourage their children to mix with others with the disease so that they could catch it and get immunity. Some people still believe it is better to catch the disease than have the vaccination but there is no evidence that this is the case. There are also many risks from catching the disease.

SINGLE OUT

Some parents believe that single vaccines for measles, mumps and rubella are better than the combined dose in the MMR vaccination. Single vaccines would mean six jabs instead of two, which can be more uncomfortable and distressing for the child. It is also unclear of the gap needed between the vaccines which could lead to poorer uptake of boosters.

• We did it! Meet the family proving it’s never too late to be immunised, (page 6).

It is never too late to be immunised.

WE DID IT!

When Joy Ugochukwu Chinelo moved to the UK from Nigeria in September last year she thought her children’s vaccination records were up to date. Closer inspection by her GP showed that they didn’t match British records.

The ones they had received were not on the list, so they were advised to have new vaccinations,” she said.

Proof that it is never too late to be immunised, Joy’s daughters Chisom, 17, Vanessa, 14 and their cousin Mmesoma, 15, all received several vaccinations including MMR and DTP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis or whooping cough).

“They were alright,” she said. “They had a slightly sore arm afterwards, but we were all laughing because they had so many plasters on their arms I thought they looked like robots!”

Joy discussed vaccinations with the children before they agreed to have them. “I told them how important it was to stop them getting the diseases but also to prevent other people getting ill.

“I am a carer and it is very important that I don’t pass anything on.” She added, “It is a good thing – we don’t know what’s coming around the corner and it is so important to protect our young ones.”

As a carer it’s very important I don’t pass things on.

HOW DOES THE MMR VACCINE WORK?

The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine. It protects against three illnesses: measles, mumps and rubella.

The highly infectious conditions can easily spread between unvaccinated people and can lead to serious problems including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy.

Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide the best protection against measles, mumps and rubella. The NHS advises anyone who has not had two doses of the MMR vaccine to ask their GP for a vaccination appointment.

Two doses of the jab protect around 99 per cent of people against measles and rubella, while around 88 percent of people are protected against mumps.

Source: NHS

Joy Ugochukwu Chinelo’s family – It’s never too late to be immunised.

In a recent national newspaper article, the award winning journalist and former host of TV’s Mastermind, recounts the events of a day that would blight the rest of his father’s life.

“It was one of those rare perfect winter days,” he writes in a national newspaper. “The snow had stopped falling during the night, the sky had cleared, and the streets were coated in a crisp white layer reflecting the bright sun. A perfect day for small boys to throw snowballs at each other.

“My father, George, was desperate to be one of those boys. Instead, he was shut in his bedroom, the curtains tightly drawn.”

He explained the reason for his father’s confinement on ITV’s Good Morning Britain.

“In those days,” he said, “everybody knew that if you had measles you had to stay indoors. Not because of catching a cold or anything but because the optic nerve could be affected badly.”

MY DAD LOST HIS SIGHT

John Humphrys, one of Britain’s best known broadcasters, has spoken out about his father’s “horrendous” experience with measles, to highlight the importance of vaccinations.

John revealed how his dad became blind for a long time afterwards. “He never properly regained his sight and he died blind. And it was absolutely horrendous.”

I have seen at first hand the terrible price paid by the generation before me.

And whether the sunlight was a direct cause or not, NHS clinicians are clear. Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) are highly infectious illnesses that can easily spread between unvaccinated people. Complications connected to measles – which include blindness and encephalitis (an infection causing brain swelling and potentially brain damage) – can be potentially life changing.

John, who describes himself as a ‘pro-vaxxer,’ said: “My life has spanned a period in this nation’s history during which the lives of millions have been saved or transformed by the miracle of vaccination.

“I have seen at first hand the terrible price paid by the generation before me.

The MMR vaccine also saw off those other horrible diseases.

“George was a typical little 11 year old when he caught measles. By the time my wife and I had our own children, measles had been conquered.

“The MMR vaccine also saw off those other horrible diseases: mumps and rubella. What a triumph for science and humanity.”

Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist with UK Health Security Agency (the body responsible for protecting the population from the impact of infectious diseases), supports John’s view. She has said, “Measles is a nasty illness for most children and for some it can be very serious, but it is completely preventable.

“Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your children. If you or your child are not up to date with your two doses of MMR vaccine, please contact your GP to catch up now.”

MORE INFORMATION

If you think your child needs a vaccination, it’s best to speak to your GP surgery to book the appointment. You do not need to wait to hear from them.

Looking after a newborn baby can be overwhelming. Problems that you would normally cope with can prove more difficult to manage.

THE BONDS OF LOVE

By Joanne Fairclough

Becoming a new parent can be joyous, but often overwhelming. We hear about a dedicated support service for parents who struggle to bond with their baby – and we get expert tips.

Relationships are everything, but the most important bond is between a parent and baby,” says Carmel Doyle.

As a midwife for 20 years, Carmel has seen first hand that some parents need extra support. Today she manages Mersey Care’s Building Attachment and Bonds Service (BABS).

“During the first few months after birth it’s vital that mums and dads develop a happy, secure and loving relationship with their little one –but sometimes life gets in the way,” she says.

“Looking after a newborn baby can be overwhelming. Problems that you would normally cope with can prove more difficult to manage. If you had a difficult childhood, parenthood may bring back memories of things you’ve tried to forget.”

The BABS team works with other agencies and services to give parents a wide and diverse range of support.

Carmel urges people who are struggling emotionally or worrying about bonding with their little one to seek help.

ATTACHMENT TOP TIPS

WAYS TO BOND WITH YOUR BABY

As new parents we put pressure on ourselves to be perfect. If you are relaxed, enjoying time with your baby and as rested as possible, you’ll find your own way of bonding with your little one.

PLAY LAP GAMES

Games like peek-a-boo, singing your favourite song and reading picture books are ideal. Your local library will be a treasure trove – for free!

KEEP EYE CONTACT AT FEEDING TIME

Gazing into your baby’s eyes, coupled with the warmth of being nestled in your arms is an amazing bonding experience. Skin to skin

contact with both parents is very reassuring for tiny babies.

BATHE TOGETHER

Bathing together is a great way of building trust. You don’t need to do this every night, it’s just as important that you get time to relax!

MASSAGE YOUR BABY

This is ideal at bathtime or during nappy changes. There are tutorials on YouTube and your children’s centre will have information about local classes.

LEARN THE CUES AND RESPOND TO THEM QUICKLY

When your baby starts to make hungry noises, talk to them and tell them that food is coming. This lets them know you are aware of their needs.

“There’s no judgement, we’re just passionate and committed about empowering parents to build a loving bond with their child and helping them believe they’re good enough. All new mums and dads want to be the best possible parent to their baby and sometimes that means getting support. It’s a privilege to help a family thrive”.

• BABS has already achieved national recognition and will this year be showcased at the Royal College of Midwives national conference.

Read Julie’s story on page 10.

WEAR YOUR BABY

A sling is a help to busy parents but the greatest benefit of all goes to your baby. They’re in close contact with your body and the motion of movement is soothing. Check out your local sling library for advice.

For more help and information visit nhs.uk/start-for-life

Carmel Doyle.

Bonding is just as important for dads.

MUM’S THE WORD

An absolute godsend, that’s the only way I can describe what BABS means to me. We’ve been through the worst time but we’re out the other side now. We’re all together and it’s because of the help I got from them. Life was good, I was settled with my partner and my two children. But after 15 years of being together, we split up. Just after that my mum died, which absolutely floored me. I moved to Huyton with the kids and met someone else, but

Julie lives in Prescot with her three children. She now volunteers for BABS to help other parents who are dealing with tough times.

We’ve been through the worst of times but we’re out the other side now.

looking back I was still grieving and quite vulnerable. The second relationship wasn’t right and we didn’t stay together. By this time, I was pregnant with CeCe but I love being a mum and I knew I could do this on my own.

I’d been struggling with depression and anxiety for 15 years and I’d been on medication which didn’t seem to work but I always put my kids first.

My GP prescribed different medication, but I was very up and down and in what they call ‘fight or flight’ mode. I was determined to get well but there were some really difficult days. I was having a mental health crisis and I just needed help.

Social services got involved and I was told that CeCe would be going into foster care as soon as she was born. There was even talk of adoption. When she was six days old, they picked her up and my tiny baby was taken to live with foster carers. I couldn’t believe what was happening.

I’d been referred to BABS by my health visitor while I was pregnant. With their help I fought to get CeCe back home with me. They gave me the support and confidence to carry on. Even more than that – I feel that BABS gave me the chance to be called ‘mum’ again. CeCe was in care for nine months and I fought to see her every day she was away from me. We’re all back together now, just as we should be. They’ve helped my older children to get through what was a really difficult timefor them too. They trust the people who work there. BABS carried on working with CeCe’s dad as well to help build the bond between them.

BABS gave me the chance to be called mum again.

Everyone who meets CeCe falls in love with her immediately! She’s so clever and funny – a little ray of sunshine who never stops chattering. Everything has fallen back into place and I’m grateful that BABS exists. The things that happened to me could happen to anyone. I needed help but I would never have known they were there if my health visitor hadn’t told me. This is why I want to tell my story in case other people need help too. They’ve changed my life and they’ve changed Cece’s life. I’m not sure where we’d be without them.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

You can be supported by BABS if you are pregnant, or a parent with children up to the age of six months. If you are struggling with bonding with your baby, please contact your midwife, health visitor, social worker or mental health practitioner who can refer you. The service covers Sefton, Halton, Knowsley, Warrington and St Helens. merseycare.nhs.uk/babs

MONSTER MUNCH

Children in care can experience trauma from their adverse experiences. We talk to a nurse about how a small toy with a big appetite is making a huge difference.

In St Helens, Merseyside, a monster like creature with a zip for a mouth enjoys nothing more than gobbling up children’s worries.

The Children in Care team provides children they support with their own worry monster, to keep and take with them wherever they go.

Kay McEneny, children’s named nurse in St Helens, explains: “Children who come into care are often emotionally traumatised. They can feel lost and confused so we are always finding new ways to help them share their worries and feel loved.

“We need only think how nervous we are when we face something new or unexpected, to imagine how a child feels moving to a new home or school,

or if they go to an adoptive home, getting to know a new ‘mummy and daddy’.

“The monsters can stimulate and help children explore these emotions. They’re not a perfect teddy bear, they are quite colourful and wacky – they make children smile.

“Sometimes a child will draw pictures or write their feelings down and store them inside the bear. Doing this can lead to them sharing worries with their carer or social worker, though if they don’t want to share, that’s also fine. Others might have a keepsake from their family home and the bear will look after it for them.”

It’s not just children who benefit from the comfort of a worry monster, says Kay.

“They have been used successfully with adults experiencing mental health issues and are particularly popular with people with dementia. If we visit a home where a parent has mental health challenges, it might be right for them to have one too.”

Read Ann’s story and how you can fundraise on page 12.

Children’s Nurse Kay McEneny 11

THEY TELL THE MONSTER THEIR WORRIES

Ann and her husband look after their three grandchildren after family upheaval.

“We honestly couldn’t go through what we’re going through without the worry monsters”, says Ann. “The children love them and they go everywhere with them.”

Five years on the trauma of their experience is still raw for the children and the worry monsters feature heavily in their play therapy sessions.

“They tell the monsters their worries, sometimes write things down and then zip up the mouth. They might share their worries, which are mostly about the past, with their play therapy teacher or their nurse,” says Ann.

By Jo Henwood

A grandmother says her grandchildren could not have survived traumatic experiences without their worry monsters.

Initially given to the two youngest children only, the benefit of the worry monster soon became apparent. “The younger two were given theirs and then the eldest asked where his was – he was quite upset he hadn’t got one,” said Ann. “So their nurse got him one and he hasn’t let it out of his sight. He carries it around with him all the time and even takes it to school. He goes to senior school soon but he’s not at all bothered.”

Children’s nurse Kay McEneny wishes for every school to embrace the idea. “My hope is that it will be acceptable to everyone that it’s okay not to be okay. If you need your worry monster that’s okay.”

THERE BE DRAGONS

Inventor Jo Proud impressed all five ‘dragons’ on BBC TV’s Dragon’s Den, leading to investments from each one of them for her Mood Bears which aid both children and adults facing various challenges.

Encouraged by Jo’s journey, the St Helens Children in Care team pitched to Mersey Care’s Charity Fund to win funding to buy worry monsters for families in their care.

My grandson carries it round with him and even takes it to school.

WHAT’S A WORRY MONSTER?

Worry monsters are fuzzy little creatures with a zip mouth to help gobble up worries and anxieties. “These aren’t scary monsters,” says Kay (above). “They’re made to be friendly, enjoyable and engaging. Jotting down worries can often help; so, when troubling thoughts arise, children can write them down or draw a picture and give it to their worry monster.”

Dragons Peter Jones, Deborah Meadon, Sara Davies, Touker Suleyman, and Steven Bartlett all invested in Jo’s Mood Bears

be taking his own worry monster along when he straps up his walking boots in May to climb Yorkshire’s Three Peaks to help raise funds for young people.

No newcomer to fundraising, Michael and the team raised more than £500 last year to ensure that children they look after each received a present at Christmas.

Michael says older children often miss out when it comes to gifts.

“One of our young people recently turned 18 and I was able to give him a nice gift with the money raised. He was made up as he doesn’t usually get any presents.”

Gifts for older teenagers and care leavers might include cinema or restaurant vouchers.

Kay McEneny says having funds to buy gifts is a huge benefit to young people in the service, “this is so good for their

emotional health. They can go out with friends and do things that other young people might take for granted.”

You can give a gift to a child in care through Mersey Cares charity. Visit merseycarenhs.enthuse.com/ cf/childrenincare to make your donation.

Knowsley Children in Care team manager Michael Allcock (above) will

MONSTER TREK

LET’S

WORK TOGETHER

The journey to recovery after illness can be a lonely one for both the patient and their family. Mum and carer Annette Hurst shares her experience of caring for her grown up daughter Miriam, and how she wishes that health care professionals had listened to her.

My 25 year old daughter caught COVID in March 2022. She found that she couldn’t look after herself, so she came home for a couple of weeks, as we thought, for some TLC. But she didn’t just bounce back. She had contracted Post COVID Syndrome (Long COVID).

Her symptoms were diverse and frightening. Both her physical and mental fatigue were so severe that she couldn’t make herself a cup of tea or hold a conversation involving a decision. ‘What do you want on your sandwich?’ was too difficult for her to answer.

Importantly, she found that interacting with the GP was hard. The complicated email system, which she would have negotiated without a thought before COVID, became a huge barrier for her to access. She was repeatedly asked, ‘What is wrong with you?’ making her feel as if her illness was all in her head.

They weren’t listening to her. And frustratingly, they didn’t listen to me either. As a carer, I was excluded from the process; from even booking an appointment for my own daughter. I felt shut out.

Undeterred, I wrote a letter to the GP practice describing in detail what my daughter was going through. It made a huge difference – the practice understood her difficulties and was able to adapt their systems to her needs. She was allocated a dedicated GP who she could call any time, and easy access to medical admin. They accepted talking to me too – hurray!

They weren’t listening to her. And frustratingly, they didn’t listen to me either.

Miriam with mum Annette

We laughed a bit –but we cried too.

We started working together and results improved. The day she made herself and me a cup of tea, three months into her Long COVID, we celebrated with cake! We ordered takeouts and ate them outside as if we were on holiday, we laughed a bit – but we cried a lot too.

She began to relax and she believed she might ‘get her life back.

Anxiety and worry dominated my daughter’s days as she struggled to believe she would ever get better. I persuaded her to listen to a ‘meditation’ CD which

harnessed the power of her mind to control her body. She began to relax and she believed she might ‘get her life back’ as she put it.

Nine months later, she started to gradually move back into her flat and do one hour a week back at work. We had mastered the ‘art of slow’ and learned to appreciate minute improvements.

One year later, our daughter was fully recovered, but I know this isn’t the same for everyone. And while I wish a health care professional had listened, respected, and accompanied me on this long journey earlier in the process, I know that the medical profession is now listening and there is a move towards change. My advice is let’s work together.

INVOLVING THE CARER

Annette’s feature has been adapted from a piece she wrote for the internationally renowned British Medical Journal (BMJ) which champions better research and clinical practice. Following on from her article, the BMJ now recommends that GPs and others look at better ways of involving or accompanying carers in a patient’s recovery plan, including:

• Involving the carer in the systems and processes of health care early after diagnosis, as this can help relieve the burden of communication and administration on the patient

• Using positive language and encouragement, as this can validate symptoms and help support mental health and wellbeing

Source: BMJ

• Asking the carer what the patient’s life is like and including this narrative in the patient’s notes to help ensure interactions with the patient are appropriate.

COMMITMENT TO CARERS

According to NHS England 1.4 million people provide 50 or more carer hours a week for a partner, friend or family member.

As an organisation they say that they recognise the significant contribution carers make to society and the NHS. You can find out more about NHS England’s commitment to carers here: england.nhs.uk/commitment-to-carers

Mersey Care offers help, advice, training and support for everyone that performs the role of carer. www.merseycare.nhs.uk/carers

WHAT IS POST COVID SYNDROME (LONG COVID)?

Emerging evidence and patient testimony are showing a growing number of people who contract COVID-19 cannot shake off the effects of the virus months after initially falling ill. Symptoms are wide ranging and fluctuating and can include breathlessness, chronic fatigue, ‘brain fog,’ anxiety and stress.

Source: NHS

THE CHAMPIONS

At the height of the AIDS crisis during the 1980s people with the Hepatitis C virus were considered pariahs of society. The stigma of testing positive often prevented people seeking help.

Today in Liverpool, a team of health professionals has eliminated the deadly virus among their clients –the first NHS service to do so. Sheer perseverance and commitment to vulnerable people has meant that their enviable record still holds strong six months on, bringing them national acclaim.

Brook Place community drug team tests every client for Hepatitis C (Hep C), a virus which can cause serious liver damage, or worse. If found positive, they are offered treatment.

The programme has been driven by Recovery Coordinator and Hep C champion Hayley Curran (pictured centre above). She grasped the challenge of identifying clients who required testing, organising treatment, keeping track of results, and following up –all with the aim of helping some of society’s most vulnerable people regain control of their health and their lives (read Joan’s story on page 17).

Hep C is a blood borne virus affecting the liver. If left untreated, it can cause serious

health problems including liver damage, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver cancer and even death.

Hayley explains why testing is so important: “Hep C is most associated with drug users sharing equipment, but you can get it through rough sex – or simply sharing a toothbrush or a razor with someone who’s infected. It’s important that everyone in our care is tested.”

Back in the 80s treatment could be unpleasant, requiring a hospital stay. Today, testing and treatment is much simpler –a blood spot test and, if positive, a tablet taken every day for two to three months.

Hayley checks her appointment lists daily to see who is due an antibody swab or blood spot test. She works closely with agencies including Cheshire and Merseyside Operational Delivery Network (ODN), the national organisation Hep C U Later, the charity The Hepatitis C Trust and Liverpool University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

The stigma of testing positive stopped people seeking help.

Hayley Curran (centre) and colleagues are changing perceptions of Hepatitis C.

Hayley is passionate about making sure people who need it are tested and treated.

Zara Cannon and Marcus

With many clients homeless or living in hostels, this wider team’s work is fully hands on. They organise events, offer voucher and goody bag incentives and will pick people up from where they are, and drive them to the test centre.

Hayley says partnership is key to success: “We don’t do this on our own – there is constant communication between us all and we meet regularly.”

Brook Place was recently awarded the Chief Medical Officer’s award for its commitment to high quality patient care.

Neil Meadows, specialist team manager paid testament to his colleague’s tenacity.

“Hayley’s passion, drive and determination are what’s got the team where we are now. She has put so much hard work into this.”

I’VE GOT PEACE OF MIND

Grief after the death of her husband and living in a hotel after the loss of her flat, led to a spell in hospital.

“I was very ill and the girls from the team visited me twice,” she said.

Joan had tested positive for Hep C about 30 years ago but further tests at the time indicated that her body had cleared itself of the disease.

About three years ago, she and her husband had both tested positive again but were not successful in taking medication.

“It’s difficult when you lead a chaotic life to remember to take medication after a meal,” says Joan. “Sometimes you don’t even have a meal.”

Joan was asked if she would be tested again recently, and following a further positive result, she agreed to take medication.

“The girls persevered”, said Joan. “They arranged for me to be picked up and taken to the hospital so that I

Sian James (pictured right), Senior Recovery Worker at Brook Place wants people to know the risks of Hep C, yet not be afraid to be tested. She says: “There is absolutely no reason for people to be infected with a blood borne virus that they could spread to others, which is so easily treated.”

It’s possible to become reinfected with Hep C so there is the constant task of sharing information on the virus, advising clients on reducing harm and offering safe needle exchange support.

Then there are new clients who need to be tested and treated. The team may take a moment to bask in the glory of success. But their work is far from over.

• The Brook Place approach is called micro elimination, (see panel below right).

Joan, a drug user for more than 40 years, is now Hep C free and in recovery.

FIND OUT MORE

If you want to learn more about Hep C elimination, or if you would like to refer yourself or somebody else for treatment for an opiate dependency, contact Brook Place on 0151 330 8260 (you must be a Liverpool resident).

You can also ask your doctor, nurse or mental health team to make a referral for you.

could be tested. I thought that they’d taken the trouble to come and see me when I was in hospital so why couldn’t I just take a few tablets every day to get myself well again.

“They made a big effort – they deserve a lot of praise.”

Joan has been off drugs for a year now and is settled in a flat, just 10 minutes away from her daughter.

“I had never told my family before that I was Hep C positive but when my daughter was with me in the hospital, I told her. She is so happy now, knowing she doesn’t have to worry about me.”

Joan continues to be supported by her recovery worker Claire Webster, she sees her daughter regularly and they go out shopping together.

“I’ve got peace of mind now,” she said. “Hep C never affected me physically; I didn’t even know I had it. But it was always in the back of my mind and now it’s gone.”

Brook Place, Orphan Drive, Tuebrook Liverpool, Merseyside L6 7UN

WHAT IS HEPATITIS C?

Hepatitis C (Hep C) is a blood borne virus affecting the liver. Treatable with a simple tablet, the virus, if left untreated, can cause serious health problems including liver damage, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), liver cancer and even death.

WHAT IS MICRO ELIMINATION?

• All clients in structured treatment are offered a Hepatitis C test

• All those with a history of injecting have been tested for Hepatitis C

• 90 percent of current and previous injectors (at risk) have a Hepatitis C test date within the last 12 months.

* The definition of micro elimination was determined by a forum made up of drug and alcohol services, NHS England, Hepatitis C Trust and Gilead Sciences, who also co-developed quality standards. for micro elimination.

Recovery worker, Sian James says people shouldn’t be afraid to be tested for Hep C.

PAINTED SMILE BEHIND THE

By Steve Murphy

Comedy star Ruby Wax has spoken candidly about her own health struggles.

Being admitted to a psychiatric unit wasn’t on her agenda but that is exactly where writer and comedian Ruby Wax found herself.

Ruby’s been an advocate for greater mental health awareness for many years – in fact she was awarded an OBE in recognition of her efforts in this area – but in her recent book, I’m Not As Well As I Thought I Was, the star talks about how she’s grappled with her own ill health.

The book, which is written in her unique style, is a candid exploration of her lived experience and journey that she describes as being, at times, an intricate dance between laughter and concealed struggles confessing

that she’d spent a lifetime creating a ‘front’ to give the illusion that all is well. “It wasn’t and it isn’t.”

Over the years Ruby has spoken openly about her condition. She once wrote, ‘I’m not bipolar, but I do have depression’. She’s also talked about her family, revealing how she comes from ‘a long line of ancestors with various flavours of mental illness’ and that she felt for her to have mental health issues seemed a ‘no brainer’.

However, in her book the 70 year old says that she was surprised that after being free from depression for 12 years, she ended up being admitted to an inpatient facility.

WHAT IS DEPRESSION?

Depression is more than simply feeling unhappy or fed up for a few days. Most people go through periods of feeling down, but when you’re depressed you feel persistently sad for weeks or months, rather than just a few days. Some people think depression is trivial and not a genuine health condition.

She refers to her depression as a ‘Big Dip – the black hole of diseases’. She recalls its return, saying: “It snuck up on me and when it did it struck hard.”

Ruby’s unparalleled honesty shines through as the book delves into the depths of her experiences, disclosing treatment details, therapist notes, and her own introspective thoughts and reflections.

Asked about why she’d written the book Ruby told a national newpaper journalist that while she hates ‘digging up all the horror shows’ from her past she realises that ‘the only way to deal with depression is to face the music.’

They’re wrong – it is a real illness with real symptoms. Depression is not a sign of weakness or something you can ‘snap out of’ by ‘pulling yourself together.’

The good news is that with the right treatment and support, most people with depression can make a full recovery.

Source: nhs.uk/mental-health

I spent a lifetime creating a ‘front’ to give the illusion that all is well. It wasn’t and it isn’t.

WHAT IS NEUROMODULATION?

Neuromodulation is the name given to different medical procedures that can change the activity happening in the brain through directly stimulating it in several ways.

The aim of neuromodulation is to help improve symptoms of mental illness (such as depression) by changing how some areas in the brain are working.

The most common type of neuromodulation is repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. This is referred to as ‘rTMS’.

Source: Royal College of Psychiatrists rcpsych.ac.uk

Continued from p19.

In I’m Not As Well As I Thought I Was, Ruby shares how she underwent a form of neuromodulation – a treatment called repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS). This innovative therapy involves magnetic pulses stimulating nerve cells associated with mood control and depression.

According to health service specialists, rTMS provides a solution for people whose antidepressant medications and psychological treatments have failed to provide satisfactory relief.

Mersey Care is one of a small number of NHS trusts equipped and able to provide this treatment. Chief Medical Officer, Dr Noir Thomas explains: “We’re very proud that we are one of only a handful of NHS Neuromodulation

services nationally set up to work with people who contend with difficult to treat depression. In fact, we are the only service in the north of England with a dedicated, purpose built suite. The good news is that we’ve already treated more than 60 people, and we can report higher than expected positive clinical outcomes.”

NEED HELP?

• Help yourself – our self help guide on depression can be read online, downloaded or watched as a video.

merseycare.nhs.uk

We have already treated more than 60 people, with higher than expected positive clinical outcomes.

Ruby joined fellow TV stars Mel B and Emily Atack, to recreate the epic journey of Victorian adventurer Isabella Bird, who conquered the world on horseback.

Ruby Wax recently opened Mersey Care’s Neuromodulation Suite based at Whiston Hospital, where she met both patients and staff. She is pictured here with Chief Medical Officer, Dr Noir Thomas.

YOU WON’T WANT TO LEAVE

Helen Robertshaw is adding new meaning to the term ‘work life balance’. The Mersey Care facilities management assistant is an army reservist – and she’s finding out the benefits of working for Mersey Care.

In previous jobs I’d not had a holiday in years because I had to use my entitlement for army training. At Mersey Care they recognise that I’m working. The Trust champions veterans and reservists, so I’m given time on top of my annual leave towards mandatory army training, and I use my own holidays to do extra training.”

Helen discovered first hand how Mersey Care builds on outside interests and skills. “Being in the army got me my job; my skills in logistics were what they were looking for. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.

“When I get opportunities to travel and develop new skills, it’s fantastic to know the Trust will support me. Once you’ve had that you won’t want to leave.”

If you’re up for a challenge visit: merseycare.nhs.uk/working-for-us Read more on page 22.

DON’T SETTLE SOAR

In a place where you’ll be supported every day to be your best.

In a role that’s ‘you.’

Within a culture that’s just, where we learn from events.

Where the goal is perfect care.

Already qualified? We’re recruiting clinical psychologists, mental health nurses, learning disability nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech and language therapists.

Just starting out? Be paid to be an apprentice, or a nurse associate.

Challenge yourself. Call or visit us at merseycare.nhs.uk/working-for-us. We’ll show you where a career with Mersey Care could take you.

I SEE A BIG CHANGE IN MYSELF

“I expressed an interest in the nursing apprenticeship, was interviewed a few days later and the following week I was at university starting my apprenticeship studies. I’d already trained as a nurse associate. It gave me more responsibilities and more autonomy – and there was a pay rise!

For that course I studied and worked, this one I studied full time. I couldn’t have afforded to do it without Mersey Care’s support. The academic side was daunting, but I had a mountain of support. It’s given me confidence –I can see a big change in myself.

Helen Bailey trainee nurse, 52.

I applied, was interviewed and a week later I was at university starting my apprenticeship studies.

CAREERS

A NEW DIRECTION

“I used to feel stuck but now I can see new career paths. Becoming an older apprentice has allowed me to develop and grow both personally and professionally.”

John Sloan, Modern Apprentice and Social Work Undergraduate.

I’m using my expertise in new ways, giving patients care in the comfort of their own home, knowing that we have the technology and clinical skills to be there when they need us.

Nisha Jose, experienced nurse, now Telehealth Clinical Team Leader.

WE LOOK AFTER EACH OTHER

“I don’t have a single example of being disrespected for being transgender. The LGBTQ+ network has been there for me, and I’ve been able to support other trans people with advice and gender services.

I don’t know all the answers, but I find out –we should all look after each other.”

Nikki Baxter, Senior Nurse Practitioner at Halton Later Life and Memory Service.

You go on a journey with someone, so seeing them overcome anxiety and depression and be able to manage their own wellbeing gives great satisfaction.

Sheldon Rodrigues, Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner.

This Trust is so far ahead of the game in how we treat patients. There are such innovative pathways, especially in trauma informed care.

James Savage, Mental Health Nurse.

By Emma Wilson

DON’T STOP ME NOW

Though she’s been running all her life, a marathon was never on the radar of clinical specialist, Clare McGrory. When her friends asked her to join them in the London Marathon her initial response was, “I’ll hold your coat.”

Yet after completing two half marathons, she saw a change in her attitude and her running. “My friend did a marathon and the look of serenity on her face after she finished ingrained itself in my brain,” explains Clare. “I knew I could do it too, so I took a leap of faith and applied.”

“I love running,” shares Clare. “It gets rid of my stresses and worries. I listen to my music and just turn off the world. “And my family are amazing, their support throughout this process means everything to me.”

Like many others, Clare’s journey hasn’t been smooth sailing and she’s faced setbacks. “I’ve struggled with pain in my legs and back. I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to do the marathon at one point, but I worked with a physiotherapist and focused on rest days and looking after my body.”

CLARE’S TOP TIPS

• Go at your own pace – whether that’s running, walking or cycling, you know your body best

• Don’t be hard on yourself – there’s no last place, be proud of yourself and celebrate your achievements

• Location, location, location – I’d recommend parkrun UK as they’re always in great locations, like Crosby beach. I also love the Albert Dock or Princes Park

• Make it enjoyable – I joined an international running event called Mikkeller last year – they start off at a brewery, run 5K, then treat everyone to a free drink!

• Food is your best friend – Clare’s love of running and health has fed into her eating habits. “I’m a good eater, I follow a vegetarian diet mostly, but I do eat fish as it has many benefits.” Check out Clare’s recipe for tuna nicoise salad on page 25.

Thomas Watson is a certified running coach and the founder of MarathonHandbook.com. He says that running is time well spent. “Let’s face it, most of us have busy lifestyles... we spend much of the day seated, in front of a screen, and when we go home, often we get caught up in the tiny distractions, rather than spending our free time wisely. Running is a good use of your time. Simple as that.”

If you’re not up for a marathon, walk, jog or run at a free parkrun UK 5k event in a park near you any Saturday morning. parkrun.org.uk

EASY MARATHON TUNA NICOISE SALAD

INGREDIENTS: SERVES 4

300g new potatoes

225g green beans

2 baby gem lettuces

1 to 2 small red onions (depending on taste)

10 cherry tomatoes halved

12 black olives

160g canned tuna in water

½ 50g can anchovy fillets

2 hard boiled eggs

3 tbsp olive oil/rapeseed oil

1tbs white wine vinegar/apple cider vinegar

½ tsp Dijon mustard (Cook extra pasta, if needed for carb loading).

METHOD

1. Boil, drain and cool the new potatoes and green beans. Slice the potatoes.

2. Separate the leaves of the gem lettuce and put in a big bowl with the onion, tomatoes, black olives, green beans and potatoes. Divide between four plates.

3. Drain and flake the tuna chunks and share between the plates with the anchovy fillets and hard boiled eggs.

4. Whisk together the oil, vinegar and mustard. Season and serve alongside the salad, or drizzle over whichever you prefer.

(Add extra pasta if needed).

I’ve chosen this recipe because it’s a rich source of omega-3 and anti oxidants vital for optimum health and vitality.

SOWING THE SEEDS

By Emma Wilson

Commitment, dependability and dedication – a perfect mix for a volunteer. Add in a passion for gardening and a pinch of sunshine and you have Sue Pearson, gardening volunteer at Peasley Cross Hospital in St Helens.

My husband struggled with his mental health in the early 2000s,” shares Sue. “He started volunteering at Mersey Care as part of his recovery and I joined to support him.”

Sue’s journey has blossomed from there. “I enjoy meeting and being with people –I get so much out of it. I think the country wouldn’t run without volunteers, they’re worth their weight in gold.”

Sue says her volunteering enables her to play an active role in the community and comes with many perks. “One of my favourite memories is our scarecrow competiton, where each ward at Hollins Park Hospital made a six foot high scarecrow. It was an incredible experience for us and the patients.”

I’ve realised what a lovely feeling it is to grow your own crops.

Sue loves spending time in nature and can see the benefits it brings to patients. “I see the lift it gives them from planting a seed to seeing something grow and harvesting it, some even go on to become volunteers.”

“The patients grow with their plants, they put so much hard work and time into them, it’s such an achievement.”

Beaming with pride, she says, “My skills have continued to flourish, and we grow vegetables now as well - we’ve grown runner beans, peas, beetroot, and peppers – everyone always loves the

peppers. I’m still learning myself; I’ve realised what a lovely feeling it is when you grow your own crops.”

Now spring’s in the air, Sue shares her hopes for the rest of the year. “Sunshine!” she exclaims. “I hope for good weather and to step into a new growing season with positivity.”

JOIN US

Mersey Care’s volunteer team is ever growing and your skills and knowledge can make a huge difference.

If you would like to talk to someone about volunteering, contact the Social Inclusion and Participation Team: volunteering@merseycare.nhs.uk

Sue Pearson with volunteers Tom Martin (left) and Paul Holboyd.

HOW TO PLANT A SPRING

GARDENING BOX

WHAT

YOU WILL NEED...

1 2 3 4

Container for outdoors with drainage holes in the bottom.

Small amount of stones/ chippings for drainage.

Multi purpose compost.

Plants of your choice, suitable for the size of your container (we used polyanthus and cyclamen plants, which are available in your local garden centre).

HOW TO MAKE YOUR SPRING GARDENING BOX...

• Place a layer of stones or chippings in the bottom of the container

• Half fill the container with compost; filter the compost through your fingers until there are no lumps

• Make sure your plants have been watered, leave for 10 minutes before planting

• Remove the plants from the plant pots one at a time, and place in the container carefully so as not to damage their roots

• Back fill with compost, gently firming down the compost around your plants

• Place in position outside and water well

If your container is large, place in position first before planting due to the weight.

PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP

By Joanne Fairclough

Spring has sprung. Have you? It’s time to throw out the old and find new things to do – studies show doing something new makes you happier and can even protect you from illness and disease.

The thrill we get from trying something new is more than a moment. Research shows novel experiences not only produce the ‘feel good’ chemical dopamine but also train your brain to remember how good that experience felt. The ‘natural high’ feels so good we go back for more.

FEEL THE FEAR BUT DO IT ANYWAY

Fear can make us avoid new things. We miss out on the pleasure of the dopamine hit now and forever because our brain never gets to create that memory.

SMALL STEPS

Take it slowly. What were you doing when you were happiest recently? What do you look forward to or want to do more of? This works with relationships too.

Your responses to these questions will help you opt for activities, experiences and people that help you feel happy and fulfilled.

STOP SCROLLING

Screen time spent ‘doomscrolling’ (reading bad and upsetting news) makes us feel more stressed.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

With any new activity, do one thing at time and plan it for times when you’re most likely to be able to keep it up. If it stops being fun, find a new one!

VISIT SOMEWHERE NEW

The Lake House in Waterloo is shortlisted as a ‘Hidden Gem’ in the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards. Enjoy a coffee with spectacular views across the marina.

GO SOMEWHERE OLD AND SOMEWHERE BLUE!

Known for a spectacular carpet of bluebells in late spring, Murdishaw Valley is an area of 36 hectares of ancient woodland, ponds and wildflowers just south of Runcorn New Town.

Murdishaw Wood is part of the Mersey Forest which stretches across Merseyside from Sefton to Cheshire. It’s a haven of opportunities if you’re interested in volunteering and learning such skills as bird identification, photography and helping wildlife.

Visit merseyforest.org.uk

Call 01925 816 217

Email mail@merseyforest.org.uk

FIVE STEPS TO WELLBEING...

WITH PEOPLE

This builds a sense of belonging and self worth.

Being active is great for your fitness and your mental health.

LEARNING KEEP NOTICE TAKE

LEARN NEW SKILLS...

Learning helps boost your confidence and improves your life in other ways – learn to cook, fix a bike or start a hobby. Look for free tutorials online!

TO OTHERS

This creates positive feelings for the person giving as well as benefitting. Volunteer or help someone you know. But just asking people how they are means a lot too.

PAY ATTENTION

to the present moment (mindfulness). Noticing the world around you can help you enjoy life. Wherever you live, spring is full of sights, sounds and smells to focus on. Snowdrops, the dawn chorus, cherry blossom, daffodils, throwing open the windows for the first time this year, sunshine and even the smell of washing dried outside.

SIT DOWN WITH A GOOD BOOK

Imagine being able to ask a character in a book to tell you more about their story. In Walton, Liverpool, people are doing just that. Except the ‘book’ and the ‘reader’ are human. Jo Henwood finds out more.

Inside The Life Rooms in Walton there’s a sense of anticipation as people arrive, eager to tell, and listen to, a story. Just like a usual library, ‘readers’ browse a catalogue, then choose the ‘book’ they want to know more about. Except here the ‘book’ is a trained volunteer – and the story is their own.

There’s no ‘please be quiet’ sign at this library. The place is alive with chatter, as books are lent out and people pair up. Topics today range from living with bipolar disorder, surviving breast cancer and managing grief. Like all good books some have happy endings, others leave the reader in suspense, or eagerly awaiting the sequel.

The Life Rooms Living Library is based on the concept of The Human Library, created in Copenhagen to challenge stereotypes. Using the slogan ‘Unjudge Someone’, it aims to create more inclusive and cohesive communities across cultural, religious, social and ethnic differences.

Visit: humanlibrary.org

Mark Craven talks to a reader about his Aspie Heroes book.

Nicola Hall, (author, Breast Cancer Survivor) brings along the wig she wore during her treatment. “I wanted to speak up for people in my situation and encourage everyone to check their breasts. People listened to my story but they also gave me ideas – I want to do it again!”

Robert Macdonald (author, The Bipolar Architect) shares his journey with bipolar disorder and how drawing, design and painting had provided therapy. He tells me, “One reader was interested in my drawings, so I encouraged him to do some of his own and afterwards he gave them to me. They are simply beautiful.”

It was very moving and lovely of people to open up to strangers.

Reader Gina.

Volunteers were trained through a programme in partnership with Lancaster University. Organiser, Eleanor Besant is already planning the next event. “People with lived experience are often best placed

to help and give hope and inspiration. The Living Library can also help people express their feelings. Hearing stories can challenge what someone may have previously believed and remove stigma.”

• For more information about the Living Library visit: liferooms.org or call 0151 478 6556.

It gave me hope. You can’t always get that from a paper book. Reader Paul Denny.

Will Mullen (author, Then and Now) shared how joining a support group helped combat loneliness. “My fella died, my children grew up and I felt very lonely, especially at night at home. Then I joined People First. At first, I wouldn’t say boo to a goose – I was so shy. Now I make people laugh but I can be serious when I want to be!”

Readers have been so touched by stories that they feel inspired to share their own experiences.

MORE HELP

People First supports adults with learning difficulties. To find out more visit: peoplefirstmerseyside.co.uk email: info@peoplefirst.uk.com or phone: 0151 329 2137.

The Life Rooms Living Library in action.

Living Library ‘Books’ Nicola Hall, Rebecca Ferguson, Robert Macdonald, Mark Craven and Will Mullen.

ACTS OF FAITH

By Steve Murphy

PILGRIMAGE TO MECCA

How chaplains and volunteers are working together to support patients, carers and staff. No matter who they are or what they believe.

“This whole experience, was a time of reflection, connection with Allah, prayer, spiritual healing, and unity among the global Muslim community,” he said.

Mersey Care Chaplain Fahmid Syed recently took part in a pilgrimage to Mecca that involved several sacred rituals, fostering a sense of closeness to Allah and a connection with fellow Muslims.

He describes his experience as being, a deeply spiritual journey filled with devotion, unity, and a profound sense of purpose as he and his fellow pilgrims fulfilled religious rites.

People often want or need help as they try to make sense of what’s happening to them.

For many of us, being hospitalised can be a time of crisis. This is especially true when it comes to mental health care, says Niall Cotter who heads up Mersey Care’s chaplaincy. “Patients and service users often want or need help as they try to make sense of what’s happening to them, of what’s going on. As chaplains this is something we deal with almost every day.”

For Niall – who leads a team of individuals from different faiths, life experiences and backgrounds, including mental health nursing, social work, teaching and involvement in community faith – it’s a role he sees as being relevant, important and a privilege.

We’re here to serve everyone equally.

And while chaplains from recognised world religions such as Islam, Judaism, and Christianity focus on leading rituals and services tailored to their own respective faith groups, Niall is keen to stress the inclusive nature of his team’s approach.

“We’re here to serve everyone equally; the person standing or sitting in front of us, regardless of their religion or beliefs. People who find themselves in inpatient care can struggle with issues around their identity and their purpose. Sometimes they need support and guidance in areas such as managing difficulties in relationships or dealing with guilt from past or current actions and events. They need to know that they don’t have to struggle alone. They need to know that we’re here to help.”

They need to know that they don’t have to struggle alone.

He speaks not just as a health care professional but also from the heart; from his own recent lived experience of being admitted to hospital and being treated for cancer.

“I’d been a mental health nurse for over 12 years when this happened, and I was used to being in control of a ward and yet here I was, and I wasn’t in control. And whilst my consultant was confident that my treatment would be successful, there was always a doubt in my mind that they could be mistaken. After all no one’s infallible.”

It was during his hospital stay and treatment that he realised that his situation didn’t just impact upon him; it had a similar impact on his family. He believes that his own time as a hospital patient made him “more aware of the people I cared for, including our staff who are affected by issues both in their personal lives and in their professional roles. They also need support.”

Others too recognise the important work of the chaplains – they are supported by a strong and dedicated team of volunteers. Niall’s quick to point out that across the Trust it’s the chaplaincy that gets the highest number of volunteers. Like the rest of the team, volunteers come from all walks of life, with different experiences and beliefs – or none at all. “No doubt about it,” says Niall, “they’re our unsung heroes.”

See page 34 for more wellbeing tips from our Chaplains.

MORE HELP

The chaplaincy team can be contacted for spiritual support or any further enquiries on spirit@merseycare.nhs.uk.

Mersey Care Chaplains Niall Cotter and Fahmid Syed.

Take a tip from our chaplains. Niall and Fahmid have given us some small steps that can have a big impact.

DO SOMETHING FOR YOURSELF

From enjoying your favourite hobby, learning something new or simply taking time to relax, it’s important to do things that make you happy, like trying a new hobby or learning a new skill.

TALK TO SOMEONE YOU TRUST

KEEP A JOURNAL

Keeping a diary or journal that explores thoughts and feelings surrounding the events of your life is said to be helpful. Journaling, in this context, is not the same as simply recording the events in your life, like keeping a log.

‘GREEN’ EXERCISE IMPROVES MENTAL HEALTH

Exercising in nature can give a quick and significant boost to your mental health, improving your mood and self esteem

CONTACT YOUR GP

They are geared to help tackle mental health issues.

Once an issue is brought to light it is out there and the process of healing has begun.

like: nhs.uk/every-mind-mattersandmind.org.uk

CELEBRATE WHO YOU ARE

Or as poet, philosopher and scholar, John O’Donohue, writes in his book Anam Cara, “May you recognise in your life the presence, power and light of your soul. May you realise that you are never alone, that your soul in your brightness and belonging connects you intimately with the rhythm of the universe. May you have respect for your own individuality and difference.”

Chaplains Niall and Fahmid.

THE VOICE

My dad always told me when I was young, ‘You can do this’. There’s been tough times in my life, but I’ve kept his words in my heart. And now I have the strength to pass that mindset onto others.

Thirty years ago, I was diagnosed with a serious mental illness. I’ve been in hospital three times; my longest stay was eight months in 2015. At one point I said to a friend, ‘I don’t think I can recover from this.’

But now, eight years later, I’m strong. I’ve kept myself fit in my gym and I’ve practised martial arts since my early 20s. I’m now a martial arts Master but being an active dad to my two brilliant daughters is one of the main reasons for my recovery.

I’m a writer too. I’ve been working on Streetnouse, a collection of poems, self help philosophy and anti bullying psychology, for 30 years! I couldn’t have got through everything I’ve been through without it. Every day I use something I’ve learnt from working on it.

I get strength from my faith and voluntary work too. I’ve been a chaplain for six years, first at Clock View and now at Windsor House. I can give people support that I have needed myself and doing that helps me too, I feel like a role model. I want to inspire people to know that they can recover. They can start afresh or even just forgive, forget and move on – little changes make big differences to people’s lives.

I see my role as governor as being the voice for service users like me. My experiences go back over 30 years of mental health care. Things have improved a lot and the patient is at the centre of things now, which wasn’t previously the case. But there is still work to be done and I want to challenge the system to make life better for people. It keeps me busy; it’s not a job you go home and forget about. I really think about things and what they mean for other people. Big things weren’t created overnight, but I see the potential in everything. I know I can do it. Just like my dad said.”

I can see the potential in everything.

Governor, Neil Michael Kelley falls back onto faith,

Governor Neil Michael Kelley pictured above and left with his daughters.