400 seek help at trauma service
MORE than 400 people have sought help at a new dedicated trauma service led by the psychologist who helped victims of the Glasgow bin lorry crash.
The Glasgow Psychological Trauma Service is designed to support people affected by childhood abuse, war, human trafficking, major incidents, or domestic abuse.
A total of 403 people have been referred since the service opened in May with 600 expected to be supported annually.
It is being led by Consultant Clinical Psychologist Dr Lisa Reynolds, who was one of the first to be called in to help with the psychological trauma experienced by victims of both the Clutha helicopter crash and George Square bin lorry incident. She said: “We absolutely recognise the impact of psychological trauma following a traumatic event.
“As a result, we have a staff of 27, including clinical psychologists and occupational therapists, working with these vulnerable groups.”
John Brown, chairman of NHSGGC said: “The Glasgow Psychological Trauma Service specifically targets those most in need and those people whose world is turned suddenly upside down following major incidents.
The service was officially opened yesterday by Maureen Watt MSP, the Minister for Mental Health.
She said: “Improving mental health services is a priority of the Scottish Government.
“We will be shortly be setting out our plans for how to do this over the next decade in our new strategy for mental health.”