Norfolk’s mental health service to showcase its work to the public

Norfolk’s mental health service will be dispelling the myths and explaining its work to the public during a day of exhibitions, seminars and other activities at the Forum, in Norwich.

The series of events from 10am-5pm on Monday, September 28 2009, will set the scene for Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust’s annual general meeting, which starts in the Forum at 7pm.

A major highlight of the day is a series of four hour-long mental health seminars, in the Cube, at which experts will provide an overview of mental health problems.

A dementia seminar at 11am will provide an insight into the disease, and the impact it has on people with dementia, and on their carers. It will explain what this means, and reveal ways of sourcing help and support.

The three subsequent seminars cover bi-polar disorder (12.30pm), schizophrenia (2pm) and personality disorder (3.30pm), and will highlight some of the positive steps a person can take on the road to recovery.

Each seminar will last around 45 minutes, followed by a 15-minute question and answer session.

“This whole day represents a golden opportunity to find out the truth about mental health issues,” said Rachel Newson, the Trust’s interim chief executive and director of business development.

“In telling it as it is, we also aim to bury some of the myths that surround mental health problems, and which so often lead to ordinary people becoming the victims of stigma. If anyone has any worries or concerns about any aspect of mental health then this is your chance to pop along, and put your questions to one of our experts.”

The Trust will be showcasing its services at display stands, and there will be a chance to meet its governors, or apply for membership.

Many partner organisations will also be represented, including the Alzheimer’s Society, the Time to Change anti-stigma campaign, and ‘Sing Your Heart Out’, which runs local singing workshops to help promote mental health.

Anyone is welcome to attend the annual general meeting, which will run from 7-9pm, with refreshments served from 6.30pm.

For further information visit www.nwmhft.nhs.uk or call 01603 421494.