A mental health service in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent has launched its one-of-a-kind Wellbeing Bus, transforming mental healthcare in the area.
The mobile facility is being provided by Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Wellbeing Service and specialises in treating psychological issues like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The treatment comes completely free of charge with patients also able to self-refer rather than go through a GP or doctor.
Dr Sarah Watts, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Lead for the service said: “We are so excited to have this addition to our service. It is a much-needed facility particularly in areas like Seisdon where GP practices may not have much free space to accommodate therapists to provide this vital service.
“We’ll also be out and about in the bus promoting the service, so look out for us and come and say hello. It has already been out promoting World Book Night, UK Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week and Mental Health Awareness Week.
“Anyone aged 16 and over and registered with a GP in Staffordshire can contact us and book an assessment appointment to discuss how we can help. Our therapists are trained in evidence-based therapies and are ready to talk with you and help you make those important steps towards feeling better.”
The team manning the Wellbeing Bus comprise of Cognitive Behavioural Therapists, Interpersonal Therapists, Nurse Therapists, Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners, and Counsellors.
The service forms part of the national adult Improving Access to Psychological Therapies programme, which looks to transform the way we diagnose, treat and view adult anxiety disorders and depression in England.
The service is being provided by Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust in conjunction with Mental Health Matters.
More information on the innovative new Wellbeing Bus service is available here.
