NHS Professionals and MindOut – supporting better mental health for LGBTQ+ people

 

 

Supporting better mental health for LGBTQ+ people

 

 

Recent research has shown the stark impact that the pandemic has had on the mental health of LGBTQ+ people in England. Recognising this extraordinary need, NHS Professionals has marked the end of Pride Month 2021 by supporting MindOut, the charity devoted to improving the mental health of LGBTQ+ people throughout the country.

 

Even before the pandemic, research pointed to a higher prevalence of mental health issues amongst LGBTQ+ people than the general population in the UK. During the pandemic, these issues have become even more pronounced and therefore, in continuation of our support for mental health awareness in 2021, NHS Professionals is proud to be working with MindOut at this critical time.

 

MindOut is a mental health service run by and for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer people with experience of mental health issues. They work to improve the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ communities, working with individuals over the phone or online.  As pandemic restrictions ease, the team are starting to gradually resume face to face support, in line with government guidance.  The team also provide training to organisations who want to improve their understanding of issues facing LGBTQ+ staff.

 

NHSP’s Chief Executive, Nicola McQueen, said:

 

“Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate diversity and the huge strides for equality which have been made in recent years.  At the same time, it is a reminder that society can’t rest on its laurels – there is still more to do and we must challenge ourselves to address inequity wherever we find it.

 

“I’m very pleased that NHSP is supporting MindOut this year and hope that they are able to continue their important work for many years to come.”

 

Helen Jones, MindOut CEO, said:

 

“MindOut are very happy to partner with NHS Professionals to help improve the mental health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ communities. Recognising diversity in the NHS is so important and we are excited to contribute to the NHSP health & wellbeing hub to make access to our services easier. The need for our services has grown hugely with the pandemic and we are so very grateful for NHSP’s support.”

 

Key information from MindOut has been included in NHS Professionals’ Health and Wellbeing Hub and promoted to NHSP’s 180,000 strong flexible workforce throughout the county.  This will help to raise awareness of MindOut’s important work, as well as providing vital information about LGBTQ+ mental health to the NHSP workforce.

 

Further information about LGBTQ+ Mental Health can be found through the following sources: