Success in the Mental Health and Wellbeing Awards!
Change Mental Health achieved gold and two silver awards at the inaugural Mental Health and Wellbeing Awards Scotland, organised by The Ajuda Foundation.
After five nominations, the team – attended by Coleen Kelly (Director of Services), Klaudia Dziemianko (Communications Officer) and Ken Morrice (Outreach Worker for The Signature Project) – won one award and came runner-up for two awards.
Gold was achieved for Best Wellbeing Service with Change Mental Health’s Community Link Worker (CLW) service, delivered in Highland and commissioned by NHS Highland. The two silver awards were for Inspirational Charitable Organisation and Outstanding Impact in Education for the charity’s Young People’s Programmes.
The award for Best Wellbeing Service comes at a terrific time for the Community Link Worker service, which recently expanded and extended to 62 GP surgeries from 29. Community Link Worker was recognised for the tangible and exceptional impact it makes on people’s wellbeing across the region.
With its emphasis on social prescribing, the Community Link Worker service has transformed how people across Highland access non-clinical, person-centred support in their community. It focuses on improving health outcomes for people experiencing stressors in their lives due to social problems that could lead to poor mental and physical health.
“This award is a huge testament to the dedication of our Community Link Worker team, who work tirelessly to support people in the ways that work best for them. By listening, understanding and connecting individuals to the right support, we are helping people lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.
“Social prescribing isn’t just an ‘extra’. It represents a fundamental shift in how we approach wellbeing. We’re proud to see this service recognised on a national level and we remain committed to expanding its reach across Highland.”
Coleen Kelly, Director of Services at Change Mental Health, who collected the award on behalf of the Community Link Worker team at the awards
Community Link Worker addresses referrals from people who could be experiencing mental health challenges, social isolation, financial hardship, housing difficulties and more. It’s entirely person-centred in its approach, with Community Link Workers getting to know the person and their interests, referring them to support that will best suit their needs.
In 2023/24, the Community Link Worker service supported 851 people across Highland, with 1403 referrals, 2218 social prescriptions and 5006 appointments. By providing one-to-one support, tailored interventions and strong community partnerships, the service empowers people to take charge of maintaining and enhancing their wellbeing, connect with local resources and build resilience.
Pamela Stott, Chief Officer of the Highland Health and Social Care Partnership, said:
“Community Link Workers have been hugely beneficial in NHS Highland, helping to signpost people to groups and activities in their local area – which can improve physical and mental wellbeing.
“By supporting people to stay well, active and healthy, Community Link Workers free up clinical time and help to build networks in communities that can improve even more lives.”
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