Improving health in the criminal justice system
NHS England is developing a programme of work to address health inequalities among those in the criminal justice system. It aims to:
- Fill the current gap in evidence
- Raise awareness of health risks
- Improve health literacy
- Improve uptake of health checks and screenings
- Provide resources to enable regions to support this inclusion health group
The programme has resulted in several resources being developed including:
- A suite of evidence reports based on surveys conducted with adults in the criminal justice system
- A national prison radio campaign to raise awareness of health risks and encourage healthy behaviours
- An interactive poster campaign for adults under supervision of probation services with information on common health issues
- A report on how to engage people in prisons based on a survey of prison officers
NHS England has also piloted a virtual Directory of Help in two men’s prisons.
The directory allows prisoners to find out more about health conditions without access to the internet and book an appointment if needed.
Read more about the programme of work via the NHS England website here.
Self Care Innovation Award winners announced
The winners of this year’s Self Care Innovation Awards have been announced.
This year’s overall winner was Bristol-based The Care Forum for its WellAware Health and Wellbeing IAG Network.
The judges praised how a wide-ranging social prescription and information programme is being used to address health inequalities and digital exclusion.
Highly commended were Fedcap’s Health and Wellbeing Service and The Lifestyle Clinic.
The awards are run by PIF partner The Self Care Forum.
Winners were announced ahead of Self Care Week which starts on 13 November.
Read more about the winner and runners-up on the Self Care Forum website here.
Evidence review builds the case for social prescribing
A scoping evidence review has found social prescribing can save money and relieve pressure on the NHS.
The National Academy for Social Prescribing (NASP) reviewed 19 studies on the economic impact of social prescribing and seven on its impact on use of health-related services.
It found social prescribing schemes can deliver between £2.14 and £8.56 for every £1 invested.
Social prescribing can also reduce GP appointments, hospital admissions and A&E visits.
However, more research is needed to access better data and demonstrate benefits more clearly.
Read more and download the study on the NASP website here.
Podcast: Challenging racism in health and social care
The latest podcast from The King’s Fund features Joy Warmington, chief executive of the equalities and human rights charity brap.
Joy explores the importance of forging genuine change beyond target setting.
She also delves into her own journey of leading authentically and having the courage to do things differently.
Listen via The King’s Fund website here.
Patient Entrepreneur Programme
The NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme (CEP) is running a 12-month pilot programme for patient entrepreneurs.
The programme, set to launch in March 2024, is aimed at people who have experience as a patient of carer and are working on healthcare innovations.
As well as access to the entrepreneur programme, successful applicants will get support from the Patient and Public Involvement team at NHS England.
Find out more about how to apply via the NHS CEP website here.
Sensory charity helps people join Scottish Government consultation
A sensory charity is helping the Scottish Government involve people with sight and hearing challenges in consultations about improving local democracy.
The Forth Valley Sensory Centre (FVSC) is using its expertise to ensure people with sight and hearing loss can participate equally in government consultations using small group sessions.
Read more on the Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland website here.
Guidance published on drug interactions with smoking behaviour
The Specialist Pharmacy Service has published guidance explaining how starting or stopping smoking can have an impact on the effectiveness of drugs.
It describes why smoking, taking nicotine in other forms, or stopping smoking may mean a person’s drug dosage needs to be reassessed.
Highlighting who is most likely to be affected, it suggests pharmacists warn patients in these groups to look out for signs of possible drug interaction problems.
Read the guidance on The Specialist Pharmacy Service website here.
Webinar: Menstrual health at work
PIF member Endometriosis UK is hosting a webinar with The International Association for Premenstrual Disorders.
The webinar will discuss how premenstrual dysphoric disorder can affect people at work and what employers can do to create a supportive workplace.
Taking place from noon to 1pm on Wednesday, 15 November, it is suitable for both employers and staff representatives.
Find out more and book via the Endometriosis UK website here.
‘Magic tables’ aim to help people with dementia and delirium
‘Magic tables’ have been installed by PIF member East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust.
The sensory kits are designed to help both calm and stimulate people with dementia and delirium.
The system projects interactive games and scenes on to any flat surface.
People can then use their hands to move the images, which can include personal pictures.
Find out more and watch a video of the magic tables in use via the Trust website here.
PIF member showcases digital innovations
PIF member Digital Heath and Care Wales (DHCW) has showcased how its systems and services are transforming hospital care.
Its new digital ward concept was showcased when health minister Eluned Morgan visited DHCW’s Cardiff office and Neath Port Talbot Hospital.