Finding a new normal

In the face of what is an unsettling and difficult time for us all, it’s been wonderful to see the national outpouring of love and respect shown towards the NHS and other key workers in recent weeks.

Much has been said about the way NHS colleagues across the country have risen to new and unexpected challenges since the COVID-19 outbreak, and I’d like to add my sincere gratitude at the bravery and adaptability that’s being shown every day to overcome this pandemic.

At CWP, we’ve accelerated the launch of our new mental health urgent helpline (0300 303 3972) to ensure this fantastic new offer is available to support local people during the Covid-19 pandemic. Open 24 hours a day, seven-days a week, it is open to people of all ages including children and young people who need urgent mental health support.

I recently spent some time with the team overseeing the helpline and saw first-hand the amazing contribution this is already making to vulnerable people in our communities.

Perhaps a slightly less obvious – but equally inspiring – factor that has really hit home since the outbreak is the way CWP colleagues have been so determined to ensure that we aren’t just responding to new challenges, but that we’re also continuing to provide outstanding care across the board.

At a time like this, juggling all the clinical priorities can make it difficult to deliver planned and urgent care, but that isn’t part of the mindset at CWP. Yes, we’ve had to do things differently, but this is where I’ve seen our people at their most creative and inventive.

We know that COVID-19 isn’t going away overnight, so finding a ‘new normal’ quickly that future-proofs our services  and properly supports our staff – while still providing the best possible care – is vitally important.

In recent weeks we’ve been able to deliver 98% of planned appointments in our physical community services, and 87% of planned community appointments across our mental health, learning disability and children, young people and family services. I know that some colleagues are worried about the potential impact on our own health and those of our loved ones while we continue to see people face to face. However, they are rising to the challenge magnificently. The continuity of service delivery at CWP is remarkable and a true reflection of the ingenuity and resolve we’re seeing right across our workforce.

I’m so proud of everyone at CWP for maintaining our aspiration for outstanding care even in the toughest of times. Thank you to everyone who continues to do their very best for others each day. I hope you and your loved ones are well, and please stay safe.

Best wishes,

Dr Anushta Sivananthan, Medical Director.