Discussion on impact of Covid on mental health

PEOPLE across West Berkshire met virtually to discuss the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on their mental health.

A number of service users, voluntary groups and professionals attended Healthwatch West Berkshire’s fifth Thinking Together event held on Thursday, November 19, after being postponed in March owing to Covid.

Although held virtually, its aims remained the same – to bring together a wide range of people to talk about issues surrounding mental health.

It was also an opportunity to discuss the Crisis Service Review Update.

Following the event, Healthwatch West Berkshire chief officer Andrew Sharp said: “It was great to get all the service users, voluntary groups and professionals into their virtual rooms to discuss how people’s mental health has been affected over this tumultuous year.

“We were pleasantly surprised that many focused on the positive aspects of lockdown, talking about time with family and getting outdoors and gardening; though sadly others found it very isolating and one distressing comment was ‘I have never been so scared in my life’.

“The Healthwatch West Berkshire team would like to thank all who took part in the event

“In particular, the team would like to thank the Berkshire West CCG’s Yvonne Mhlanga for presenting a vital update on the new mental health crisis services launched during Covid19, which is designed to help everyone from children through to adults.

“Thanks to local MP Laura Farris for finding time to join the event and talk about young people’s mental health.

“Thanks also to our voluntary sector partners, including: Eight Bells, Recovery In Mind, Together for Berkshire, Open for Hope, The Advocacy People, Time to Talk, and finally to the West Berkshire Health and Wellbeing Board for supporting the event.”

A follow-up event will take place in spring 2021. Anyone unable to attend the November event and wanting to give feedback around mental health matters in West Berkshire, should email contact@healthwatchwestberkshire.org.uk or call (01635) 886210.