Publish date: 15 March 2021

Keeping Well, developed and delivered by a partnership of West London NHS Trust and Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust has been shortlisted in this year’s Health Service Journal (HSJ) Value Awards.

The talking therapies service was one of the first in the country set up in response to the Covid-19 pandemic to support the psychological wellbeing of health and social care staff across the eight boroughs in North West London.  Most referrals are from staff who need support for anxiety and depression.

It has been shortlisted in the Mental Health Service Redesign Initiative category.

Staff can access flexible advice and support from a mental health professional from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm via www.keepingwellnwl.nhs.uk, including:

  • A number to speak to someone immediately
  • Live online chat
  • The option to ask for a call back
  • An online self-referral form
  • Self-help resources (webinars, apps, guides)

Ruth Dennis, Head of Psychology at West London NHS Trust said:

“We’re really proud to be shortlisted in the Mental Health Service Redesign Initiative category. The Keeping Well service was set up very quickly in response to the Covid outbreak as it was clear the pandemic was going to have a lasting impact on the mental health of NHS and care workers.

“We anticipate demand for the service will continue to grow and hope that colleagues from across North West London in need of psychological support get in touch.”

Dr Ryan Kemp, Director of Therapies at Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“We know that many of our colleagues are experiencing extraordinary levels of stress and trauma. If you need someone to talk to our trained wellbeing professionals are here to help.

“These evidence-based therapies work and the live chat allows anyone to talk anonymously and confidentially to a trained clinician in real time. We hope that having the opportunity to ask questions in this way will help more people come forward for support.”

Service users have described their experiences of Keeping Well:

“I have learnt so much about myself and compiled strategies in managing complex situations and working through past trauma. My counsellor has been exceptional, has utilised strategies to explore traumatic experiences and supported me find new ways of managing difficult emotions”.

“I cannot thank my therapist enough for her kindness and understanding. The tools she taught me and the mindful changes of thought and breathing exercises are very useful. Most of all she made me feel worthy and I’m beginning to have respect for myself.  My confidence has grown, thanks to her, and I will continue to use the tools to enhance my life.”

“I had the most amazing journey with my therapist from start to finish. It was very daunting at first but very gently and over time the connection and understanding we shared was exceptional.”

“I had a really positive experience, which I didn’t expect. Didn’t think just half an hour would be enough. But actually the different tools mean I can do things for myself, and not depend on the therapist”.

“Talking with the therapist allowed me to break down what was causing me to feel certain ways and how it was affecting me. The therapist talked through techniques which could help me and allowed me to take the time I needed.”

The winners will be announced at the HSJ Value Awards in June.