The most recent Make Every Contact count public heath bulletin looking at latest evidence around smoking cessation, alcohol, healthy weight, healthy eating and physical exercise is now available. The bulletin is produced by Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS FT Library staff. If you cannot access any of the articles included in the bulletin please contact academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.
Category: Advocacy
Physical Activity
Breaking Barriers: Diversity in NHS Communications
A new NHS Confederation report explores key insights and recommendations aimed at improving access, career experiences, and outcomes for ethnic minority (BME) communications professionals across the NHS. It highlights institutional racism, structural bias, limited career progression, and a worrying trend: 26% of surveyed BME communicators expect to leave the profession within three years. The report underscores the urgent need for inclusive practices, allyship, and measurable change across the communications workforce.
Read the full report here: Breaking barriers | NHS Confederation
The Atrocities of Hope: An Analysis of the ‘Nigeria Problem’
We’re excited to share that The Atrocities of Hope: An Analysis of the ‘Nigeria Problem’ by Michael Olukayode, a member of our own Trust, is now available in the library.
In this thought-provoking work, Olukayode explores the complex political, social, and historical factors shaping Nigeria today. Blending analysis with personal insight, the book offers a compelling examination of the country’s challenges and opportunities.
Supporting Perinatal Mental Health and Breastfeeding Awareness
The perinatal period is a vital time for both mental health and infant feeding support. Our library offers a wide range of resources focused on perinatal mental health and breastfeeding awareness to help healthcare professionals and families navigate these important areas.
Whether you’re seeking practical guidance, evidence-based approaches, or supportive materials, our collection is designed to empower staff and parents alike.
Explore our resources by visiting the library or checking the catalogue online.
North West Knowledge and Library Services catalogue
Suicide Prevention and Self Harm Bulletin
The latest Suicide Prevention and Self Harm Bulletin produced by the Mersey Care Evidently Better team is now available.
In this issue:
- Three Dads’ pride at suicide prevention lessons in schools
- Provisional patient suicide data (2012-2024)
- Effects of sandplay group therapy on children at risk of suicidal ideation
- Suicide prevention starts before the crisis: intervention guidelines for university students
- Work stress and its association with suicidal ideation, health and presenteeism during the COVID-19 pandemic: cross-sectional study in the UK health and university workforce
- Plus much more
If you are unable to access any of the included articles please contact academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.
Mental Health Awareness Week 2025
This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week (12–18 May 2025) focuses on community—a reminder that connection, support, and belonging are essential for good mental health. Being part of a strong, supportive community helps us feel safe, valued, and less alone.
The week encourages open conversations about mental health, reduces stigma, and promotes resources to support wellbeing. It’s a great time to reflect on how we can strengthen the connections around us and be there for one another.
Learn more and get involved:
mentalhealth.org.uk
mentalhealth-uk.org
Making Every Contact Count May 2025
The most recent Make Every Contact count public heath bulletin looking at latest evidence around smoking cessation, alcohol, healthy weight, healthy eating and physical exercise is now available. The bulletin is produced by Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS FT Library staff. If you cannot access any of the articles included in the bulletin please contact academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.
Smoking Cessation
Alcohol
Healthy Weight & Healthy Eating
Physical Activity
CQC Survey Reveals Ongoing Challenges in Community Mental Health Services
The Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) 2024 Community Mental Health Survey highlights persistent issues within NHS community mental health services in England. Key findings include:
- Access and Waiting Times: 40% of respondents did not receive support while waiting for their first appointment, and 42% reported that their mental health deteriorated during this period.
- Crisis Care: While 78% knew who to contact during a crisis, 27% did not receive the help they needed, and 47% reported that their families or carers were not offered support during such times.
- Care Planning and Involvement: Over a third (38%) did not have a care plan, and 43% had not had a review meeting to discuss their care. Additionally, 36% reported having no choice in how their care was delivered.
- Support for Broader Needs: Significant numbers of respondents did not receive help or advice for joining community activities (44%), finding work (69%), or accessing financial advice or benefits (67%).
These findings underscore the need for comprehensive improvements in community mental health services to ensure timely access, effective crisis support, and holistic care planning.
Read the full report: CQC – Community Mental Health Survey 2024
Strengthening Suicide Prevention: From Policy to Practice
The Suicide Prevention Consortium’s 2025 report, Suicide Prevention Principles: From Policy to Practice, outlines two fundamental principles for effective suicide prevention: ensuring ‘no wrong door’ to accessing support and providing person-centred care. The report emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts, inclusive practices, increased staff awareness, and robust workforce support to translate these principles into actionable strategies.
Read the full report: NSPA – Suicide Prevention Principles: From Policy to Practice
The King’s Fund: New Report Highlights Mental Health Challenges Faced by Asylum Seekers and Refugees in the UK
The Mental Health Foundation’s 2025 report sheds light on the significant mental health challenges experienced by asylum seekers and refugees in the UK. It emphasizes the need for trauma-informed policies and better support systems to address these issues.
Read the full report: The Mental Health of Asylum Seekers and Refugees in the UK – 2025 Edition