Category: NHS

Supporting ADHD Services Across the NHS

NHS England has released new guidance on ADHD service delivery and prioritisation. The advisory note outlines key factors for systems to consider when managing increasing demand for ADHD assessment and support.

With referrals and waiting lists continuing to rise, the document encourages a balanced approach that prioritises those most in need, promotes consistent pathways and supports staff to deliver safe, effective and timely care.

The guidance also recognises the importance of joined up working across primary care, mental health and education settings to provide holistic support for individuals and families.

You can read the full advisory note on the NHS England website: NHS England » ADHD service delivery and prioritisation – advice to systems

Learning from Lived Experience: My Story Playlist

At Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, we know that the most powerful lessons often come directly from people with lived experience.

The My Story playlist brings together personal accounts of recovery, resilience and the challenges of living with mental ill health. These stories are not only deeply moving, they also help shape the way we deliver care and design services.

Watch Jane’s story here: Jane’s story on YouTube
Explore the full playlist: My Story on YouTube

Dementia Bulletin

The latest dementia bulletin from Mersey Care Evidence and Library Service has now been published at https://www.evidentlybetter.org/dementia/2025/09/3-september-2025/

In this issue:

  • NHS supporting record numbers of people living with dementia
  • How AI is accelerating the race to understand dementia
  • Self-Reported Hearing Aid Use and Risk of Incident Dementia
  • World Alzheimer’s Report 2025 launch

If you are unable to access any of the included items please contact academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.

dem3sep25Download

Exploring evidence regarding vision-based monitoring in inpatient mental health units

The Care Quality Commission commissioned a rapid evidence review to assess vision-based monitoring systems (VBMS) in inpatient mental health settings. The study examined 68 documents and conducted 11 interviews to understand how VBMS are used and their impact on safety and care.

Key insights include:

  • VBMS can track location, activity, vital signs, and support informed interventions, helping reduce sleep disturbances, self-harm incidents, restraint use, and operational costs.
  • Some evidence shows reductions such as a 44% drop in bedroom self-harm incidents and a 26% fall in restraint use, though findings are limited and mixed.
  • Significant concerns around consent, privacy infringement, diminished patient dignity, and risk of re-traumatisation were raised.
  • The report highlights gaps in regulation, policy guidance, and evidence quality—calling for clearer oversight, ethical safeguards, and further independent research to inform CQC’s stance.

Read the full report here: Exploring evidence regarding vision-based monitoring in inpatient mental health units – Care Quality Commission

Education Bulletin

With thanks to our colleagues at Mid-Cheshire NHS Foundation trust the latest Education bulletin is now available to view and download.

Some articles are freely accessible, others require an Open Athens account. Please get in touch for support with this: academic.library@lscft.nhs.uk.

Education Bulletin August 2025Download

Patient Health Records: Access, Confidentiality, and the Journey Toward a Single Record

A July 28 2025 briefing explains current UK laws governing patient access to their own health records and confidentiality protections. It reveals that NHS data remains fragmented—GPs and hospitals each hold separate records, complicating care and research. The government plans to introduce a “single patient record” via the NHS App. While many support better data sharing, concerns linger over third-party access. Electronic record systems are in place in most NHS trusts, but progress continues toward full implementation by 2026. Key legislation now includes the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 and updated standards to encourage secure and efficient data sharing.

Read more: Patient health records: Access, sharing and confidentiality – House of Commons Library

NHS Launches Official WhatsApp Channel

NHS England has launched a new WhatsApp Channel to share trusted health information directly with the public. The channel will feature short, visual messages covering public health campaigns such as flu and COVID-19, seasonal advice, NHS updates, and myth-busting content.

The channel also encourages users to share posts with family and friends through the app. To join, simply search for ‘NHS’ under the Updates tab in WhatsApp.