Mental health teams in Cornwall improving services for neurodivergent people
They've been working with members of the Autistic Community of Cornwall
Adult mental health teams across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have taken part in training to learn more about neurodivergence.
The training is delivered by members of the Autistic Community of Cornwall. It aims to improve the experience of neurodivergent people who need mental health support.
Beth Ford is Associate Director of Community Mental Health Services at Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust:
"Better understanding of neurodivergence and how to create environments in which people can flourish is vital. Even amongst health professionals, there are stereotypes around autism.
"The Community is helping us challenge these so that our staff can provide high quality care for autistic patients."
The Autistic Community of Cornwall is a community interest company. It was created by autistic people for autistic people. The Community began in April 2023, and they have received numerous requests for support.
Co-director Tigger Pritchard says: "We set up The Community out of frustration at the support available for the autistic community in Cornwall. I have been working within the autistic community to promote better acceptance and understanding of autism for many years.
"Through the Community we provide all types of training. We also offer mentoring for those who would like to talk directly to another autistic person.”
Co-director Marie Ralph explains: "There is much debate about giving autistic people a medical label. But I believe getting a diagnosis is an important step for gaining support. I am known as the Community’s activist!
"I provide support to parents who want better education support for their children. Or for finding a way to get a quicker diagnosis."
The Trust is the first organisation in the area to invest in widespread autism training.
Beth Ford comments: "The response to this training has been so positive. This is just the start. We are also supporting a group of mental health professionals to undergo more focussed training around identifying autism using specialist diagnostic tools.
"They will then be able to support each other, and other colleagues too, in identifying autism and neurodiversity. This may be crucial for an individual when they meet our mental health services.
"It is important the NHS supports every member of our community and that we learn from them. We will continue to work with the Autistic Community of Cornwall. We hope this will bring about changes in working practices. We encourage other organisations to seek their help so that we can develop a more tolerant and inclusive society."