North West Boroughs Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has launched a brand new centre, The Young People and Families Wellbeing Hub, to support the mental wellbeing of children and young people in Knowsley.
The Knowsley Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and the Cheshire and Mid-Mersey Children’s Eating Disorder Service has been brought together in one place which will improve services for children and young people.
CAMHS help young people under 18 who have emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulties as well as provide support to their families. The Mid-Mersey Children’s Eating Disorder Service provide assessment, treatment and support for young people with eating disorders and their families.
As the centre is situated at the site of Whiston Hospital, it benefits from a separate outpatient unit, good links to the paediatrics department and physical health services, and a great consultation space.
The centre opened its door at an opening event attended by young service users, a pop, northern soul and disco band called The Retrosettes and the SHOUT participation group. SHOUT is a group of people who want to improve mental health services and make change to North West Boroughs Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s services by sharing their thoughts and ideas. The SHOUT participation group also help to raise awareness of mental illness and break down the stigma.
Lee McMenamy, Assistant Director of Operations at North West Boroughs Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Being able to create a purpose-built Young People and Families’ Wellbeing Hub has been a huge priority. I am so delighted to see it come to fruition and the positive impact it’s having. The sole aim has always been to improve services for children and young people within Knowsley, and The Hub is another great stride forward.”