Memory Clinic team awarded

A TEAM of health board staff who support people with memory problems in Gwynedd and Anglesey have become the first in Wales to have a top accreditation for their work extended. Staff at the Gwynedd & Môn Memory Clinic were re-awarded the ‘Memory Services National Accreditation Certificate’ by The Royal College of Psychiatrists in recognition of their exemplary practice across key areas identified by mental health professionals, and following feedback from service users, carers and GPs. The clinic provide an assessment and diagnostic dementia service for over 1,400 people every year in Gwynedd and Anglesey who have early onset of memory problems. The service also provides a wide range of person centred support following diagnosis. The service is delivered in hospitals, GP surgeries and patients’ homes by a multidisciplinary team which includes Clinical Psychologists, Nurses, Healthcare Support Workers, Consultant Psychiatrists and an Occupational Therapist. The team’s efforts were first recognised in 2015, and following a rigorous audit and peer review of their service in April this year, The Royal College of Psychiatrists extended the team’s accreditation by a further two years. Memory Clinic Interim Manager Rhian Russell-Owen said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been recognised by The Royal College of Psychiatrists. The accreditation gives us the quality mark which demonstrates that we are working to the highest national standards, and gives patients and carers the confidence that they will receive really high quality care and support.”