Friday 1 April 2011

Shortly after the 2010 election, HM Government realised there was a pressing need to develop a new national strategy for mental health that included action to promote positive wellbeing and resilience, as well as managing problems of mental ill-health. Faculty of Health & Social Care's Professor of Public Health, Woody Caan, was one of the few academic participants in the diverse team of experts invited by the Department of Health to help develop this innovative strategy. Senior civil servants, presidents of professional bodies and chief executives of national charities made up the majority of participants.

Over seven months they collaborated, with increasing determination and confidence, under the Chairman, Professor Hugh Griffiths (the Government's acting 'Tsar' for mental health). The result, 'No Health without Mental Health', was launched on 2 February 2011. Individuals and communities, across all ages were considered within one 'lifecourse' strategy. Practical evidence on family, school and workplace intervention was evaluated, and the importance of the environment (both built and natural, and their sustainability) was recognised in promoting wellbeing. Within public mental health, there was frequent discussion of the current economic climate, including the role of education and employment in life-long health. Research by our students (as varied as using local nature conservation for eco-therapy or the resilience of survivors interviewed about the 1953 Canvey Island flood) contributed to the approach.

The launch of the strategy stimulated widespread, national discussions in the press and media (for example, at the BBC), and 29 national, non-governmental organisations pledged to co-operate in 'A Call to Action' for no Health without Mental Health.

Here, we teach a broad spectrum of professionals who can contribute to mental wellbeing. The Government plans a large increase in key areas, like health visiting for families and improving access to psychological treatments in primary healthcare settings; just where we have been proactive in education for the East of England. Research will also explore the scope for improved mental health: for example, Professor Caan was invited to collaborate next on the relationship between the Office for Civil Society plans for the 'Big Society' and mental wellbeing.

For more information, please contact Professor Woody Caan at woody.caan@anglia.ac.uk