Local Support in Action
Joined-up support for health and wellbeing
Mind Your Head (MYH), a local mental health charity, has worked closely with other services over the past year to support individuals to address challenges related to mental health, physical health and social isolation. Some of these include: NHS Shetland’s dental and GP teams; Shetland Islands Council’s Occupational Therapy team; Moving On Employment Project; the Recovery Hub and Community Network; and parents of their Wellbeing 1000 group. The following stories highlight the importance of personalised, compassionate care and the power of collaborative working.
One older adult, recently bereaved, reached out for emotional support. After an unexpected hospitalisation, MYH support workers coordinated with healthcare professionals to maintain continuity of care, including providing a private space for conversations at the hospital. Once discharged, he continued receiving help, including transport assistance from occupational therapy services to meet the MYH support worker, ensuring his grief and physical health needs were met holistically.
A young adult experiencing severe anxiety around accessing healthcare services also sought support. Over several months, they built trust with a practitioner through regular sessions. With encouragement and digital tools, they successfully engaged with their GP and, despite initial fears, completed necessary dental treatment with the help of an understanding and adaptive dental team.
A man in his 20s accessed support when he was experiencing low mood and anxiety. This was compounded by isolation, disrupted sleep, and increased alcohol use following job loss. He worked with a MYH practitioner to develop a manageable, goal-focused plan. Employment was prioritised, and with support, he engaged with the Job Centre and the Moving On Employment Project, eventually securing a new job. His sleep improved through working on techniques and new wind-down routines with his practitioner. He was also supported to access the Recovery Hub to address his alcohol use. Over time, he reintegrated into the community, experienced improved mental wellbeing, and was successfully discharged from the service.
Since 2021, a local parent-and-baby drop-in group run by MYH has provided a welcoming space for families with children up to 2.5 years old. By 2023, increasing attendance and feedback from participants highlighted the need for a more tailored approach for families with younger infants. Following engagement with attendees through questionnaires and informal discussions, staff piloted a dedicated under-1s session, running weekly from 12:30 to 14:00. Launched in November 2023, the new group has been well received. Feedback has emphasised the relaxed, nurturing environment and the positive impact on parental confidence and anxiety. The group will continue based on its early success.
Contribution to the Shetland Partnership
- People: Promoting wellbeing and resilience through personalised support.
- Participation: Enabling individuals and families to take part more fully in their communities.
- Place: Ensuring services reflect local needs and resources.
- Money: Supporting cost-effective, joined-up care that reduces pressures on services.