Dear colleagues
The LPT family are here to support each other and our colleagues, service users, families and friends who may be experiencing any distress or trauma. The current situation in Afghanistan is very concerning and has brought devastation to so many. As an NHS trust delivering mental health services, we know how times like these can deeply affect emotional and mental wellbeing. Today I wanted to reach out to anyone who may be affected either directly or who have loved ones impacted by this or any other conflict, to let you know that we are here for you and that help and support is available.
LPT is proud to provide mental health services for armed forces veterans as well as supporting the veterans and reservists who work for us. We know this may be a difficult time and your wellbeing is our priority.
Colleagues are reminded to speak with their line manager or visit the health and wellbeing page on the StaffNet for details of support available to you or visit our LLR Staff health and wellbeing hub https://www.llrstaffwellbeing.org for dedicated high quality support for your mental health. I have also attached information about our LPT veterans virtual drop in cafes, which are run by and for ex service personnel.
If you are or know a veteran, reservist or armed forces member, there is specialised support available on the NHS mental health services webpages here https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/armed-forces-and-veterans-healthcare/veterans-nhs-mental-health-services/. You can also contact your GP or reach out to Op COURAGE for support at www.nhs.uk/opcourage.
If you have been affected, or have family and friends in Afghanistan, our thoughts go out to you. Colleagues working with service users, carers, or any team members who are in some way impacted by this or any other conflicts in the world are reminded to please be mindful of signposting them to available support, reflecting our LPT values of compassion, respect, integrity and trust alongside our leadership behaviours for all. Regional coordination is being put in place to oversee any health requirements for individuals and we will be linking in as required.
The scenes of human suffering on the media have been truly distressing to watch. If you would like to talk to someone please do reach out.
Please take care of yourselves and each other,
Angela
Chief Executive Officer
Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust