Published by Redbridge Concern for Mental Health

Exercise on Prescription

Local GPs are now offering exercise on 'prescription'. Eighteen surgeries in Redbridge are taking part in Exercise on Referral where doctors and other health professionals can refer patients whose condition would benefit from physical activity.

Participants are given a free six-week training programme at a local gym to help tackle conditions including depression, diabetes, obesity, asthma and people at risk from cardiac disease.

If a patient would like to register for exercise on referral but isn't with a participating surgery they can contact the Exercise on Referral Scheme Manager Steve Smith on or email

Job Opportunity

Redbridge Concern for Mental Health is setting up a one year pilot project to support people with dementia, who are living in a long term care setting.

Its aim is to ensure that people who may be considered 'at risk' under the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards have access to additional social support and befriending.

Applicants should have experience of working supportively with people and have awareness of issues that affect people with mental health problems, particularly those with dementia. They will need to be approachable, adaptable, and able to work effectively as a team member in a busy office.

The closing date for applications is 5pm, Friday 17th April 2009.

You can find out more about the job and download an application form here.

Central London Samaritans

Central London Samaritans are offering a free online referral service. If you regularly come into contact with vulnerable people who might be in crisis, depressed or suicidal - set up an account and refer them to Samaritans online. They will call the person within 24 hours - giving them access to Samaritans support. If you are interested in finding out more about this service please contact Shaun Kelly on: or email:

Bobby Baker's Diary Drawings

Bobby Baker is one of the most widely acclaimed and popular performance artists working today. She began her diary drawings in 1997 when she became a patient at a day centre. Originally private, they gradually became a way for her to communicate complex thoughts and emotions that are difficult to articulate to her family, friends and professionals.

The drawings cover Bobby's experiences of day hospitals, acute psychiatric wards, 'crisis' teams and a variety of treatments. They chart the ups and downs of her recovery, family life, work as an artist, breast cancer and just how funny all this harrowing stuff can be.

The exhibition runs until the 2nd August at the Wellcome Collection, 183 Euston Road London NW1 2BE.

You can find out more details here.

National Mental Health Development Unit

A new agency to ensure national mental health policies bring about real improvements for patients and carers was launched on 1 April. The new National Mental Health Development Unit has succeeded the National Institute for Mental Health in England (NIMHE).

The change follows a review of mental health service delivery. The Development Unit will co-ordinate support for key mental health projects such as: improving access to talking therapies; promoting equalities in mental health services for different groups, based on race, gender and age; promoting social inclusion and social justice for people with mental health problems; promoting well-being and mental health for the whole population; and supporting effective mental health commissioning.

Jon Abrams
Web Site Editor
Redbridge Concern for Mental Health
98-100 Ilford Lane
Ilford, Essex, IG1 2LD
Web Site: rcmh.org.uk
Email:
Telephone:

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Disclaimer

Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Redbridge Concern for Mental Health unless otherwise specifically stated.