We’re pleased to announce the continuation of the highly successful SMI (Serious Mental Illness) Engagement Training workshops. Three years after their inception, these lived-experience-led workshops, born from the initiative of our Experts by Experience (EbEs), continue to provide insightful training to people working and volunteering in mental health roles across Somerset.
The workshops enhance understanding and improve engagement with individuals experiencing serious mental illness. The training aims to address inequalities faced by those experiencing mental illness and enable them to feel supported and heard, leading to better engagement with services.
The training is co-produced and co-delivered by a diverse lived-experience team from across Open Mental Health and the NHS in Somerset. Participants learn how to engage with and support patients with SMI, focusing on:
- Building trust, giving hope, and time in a trauma-informed manner.
- Discussing the impact of conscious and unconscious stereotypes and biases.
- Exploring barriers, finding solutions, and using effective communication methods.
The interactive online sessions provide a psychologically safe and nurturing environment for questions, discussions, and personal reflections.
Upcoming workshop dates are as follows:
- Wednesday 23rd April: 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
- Wednesday 21st May: 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
- Tuesday 24th June: 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm
The training sessions are open to staff and volunteers in Somerset-based primary care networks and individuals working in Open Mental Health or Somerset Foundation Trust.
For more details or to book a space, please email the Peer Connections team >>