Tag Archives: health

Greenwich Mental Health Carers Forum – June Update

By Matthew McKenzie – Chair of the Greenwich MH carers forum

The forum continues to provide a safe space for carers to receive updates, influence local services and learn about developments that affect both carers and the people they support.

This month’s forum focused on three important themes:

  • New support available for carers through the Greenwich Mental Health Hub.
  • Major reforms to the Mental Health Act and what they mean for carers.
  • Why unpaid carers must continue to have a voice in shaping local mental health services.

New Mental Health Support for Carers

We were pleased to welcome Jana, Mental Health Carers Advisor from the Greenwich Mental Health Hub, who introduced a relatively new service specifically supporting carers experiencing their own mental health difficulties.

Many carers spend years putting someone else’s wellbeing first while their own emotional health suffers. Stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, loneliness and exhaustion are common experiences among unpaid carers. The Mental Health Hub aims to provide early support before these issues become more severe.

The service accepts referrals primarily through GPs and offers:

  • Individual mental health assessments
  • Short-term personalised support
  • Advice on carers’ rights
  • Signposting to benefits, housing and community organisations
  • Emotional wellbeing support
  • Practical coping strategies
  • Access to peer support groups

Support can be delivered face-to-face, online or by telephone, making it more accessible for carers with demanding caring responsibilities.

One particularly welcome development is the dedicated carers’ drop-in sessions, which are open even to carers who have not been referred into the Hub. These sessions provide opportunities to discuss issues such as:

  • Sleep difficulties
  • Self-care
  • Stress management
  • Accessing local services
  • Benefits advice
  • Carers’ Assessments
  • Meeting other carers facing similar challenges

As carers repeatedly tell us, simply speaking with someone who understands the realities of caring can make an enormous difference.

Carers Continue to Raise Important Gaps

One of the strengths of the forum is that carers are able to raise concerns directly with professionals.

During the discussion several important issues were highlighted.

Many carers continue to experience difficulties navigating complex mental health systems and understanding their rights.

Questions were raised about the lack of specialist advocacy for mental health carers in Greenwich. While support and signposting are available, carers discussed how independent advocacy can be invaluable when attending meetings, challenging decisions or ensuring their voice is properly heard during difficult situations.

The discussion recognised that navigating the Mental Health Act, hospital admissions and care planning can be overwhelming, particularly for new carers who may have little understanding of the legal processes involved.

These conversations reinforce why forums like this remain so important. They allow carers to identify gaps in services while helping organisations understand where further improvements are needed.

Understanding the New Mental Health Act

A major part of the forum explored the forthcoming reforms to the Mental Health Act.

Although the original Mental Health Act dates back to 1983, significant reforms have now received Royal Assent and will gradually be introduced over the coming years.

These reforms aim to create a more person-centred approach by strengthening:

  • Choice and control
  • Therapeutic benefit
  • Least restrictive care
  • Respect for individual dignity

For unpaid carers, these reforms are particularly significant because they affect how decisions are made when someone is detained for assessment or treatment under the Mental Health Act.

Universal Care Plans and Care Contingency Planning

The forum also introduced another important development currently being rolled out across London: the Universal Care Plan.

This digital record allows important information about both carers and the person they support to be shared appropriately across health and care services.

For carers, this can help:

  • Ensure professionals know who provides care.
  • Reduce the need to repeat information.
  • Improve emergency planning.
  • Support continuity of care.
  • Make carers more visible within NHS systems.

Alongside this sits the Care Contingency Plan, which records what should happen if a carer suddenly becomes unable to provide support due to illness or an emergency.

Many carers have never considered what would happen if they themselves became unwell. Having a contingency plan can prevent crises and ensure continuity of care for vulnerable people.

Local Updates

Greenwich Carers Centre also shared news of a new partnership with the South East London Cancer Alliance. I will be involved regarding my Cancer Caregiver group

The project will establish local peer support opportunities for carers and people affected by cancer, alongside awareness events covering issues such as breast cancer, prostate cancer and wider health and wellbeing topics.

Further information will be shared by Greenwich Carers Centre over the coming months.

Looking Ahead

The Greenwich Mental Health Carers Forum continues to demonstrate why unpaid carers need opportunities to come together.

The discussions during this meeting highlighted both the progress being made and the challenges that remain. Carers continue to advocate for better information, stronger involvement in care planning, improved advocacy services and clearer communication from health professionals.

As the Mental Health Act reforms begin to take shape over the coming years, carers will play an increasingly important role in ensuring these changes lead to meaningful improvements for both carers and the people they support.

If you were unable to attend this forum, we hope this summary has helped keep you informed. We encourage all unpaid mental health carers to join future meetings, share their experiences and help shape the services that support carers across Greenwich.

Greenwich Mental Health Carer Forum — November 2025

On a brisk November afternoon, unpaid mental health carers across Greenwich gathered once again, not just to share experiences, but to seek answers, influence services, and strengthen community. Facilitated by long-time carer advocate Matthew McKenzie, the forum brought together carers, relatives, professionals, and two guest speakers from Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust.

As I explained when opening the meeting, the purpose of the forum is twofold connection and influence:

November’s session featured two speakers:

✅ Speaker 1 — Lorraine Regan

Director for Community Mental Health, Learning Disabilities & Autism, Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust

✅ Speaker 2 — Janice Williamson

Carer Involvement Lead, Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust

Both provided insight into service pressures, carer involvement, policy development, training, assessments, and support improvements happening across the trust.

Speaker Introduction — Lorraine Regan

Lorraine opened by introducing her background and role:

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Connecting with Other Carers: Benefits and Strategies

Why Unpaid Carers Should Connect with Other Carers

Unpaid carers play an essential role in society, often providing support to loved ones with long-term illnesses, both physical and mental. However, the journey of caregiving can be challenging and isolating, making it crucial for carers to connect with others in similar roles. Establishing these connections can provide numerous benefits, including emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community. In this blog by Matthew McKenzie, we will explore the reasons why unpaid carers should connect with other carers, structured around several key areas: emotional support, reducing isolation, accessing resources, practical advice, and mutual support for self-care.

If you want to watch the 20 minute in depth lecture, the click the video below.

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Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2025

Welcome to another blog post from Matthew McKenzie (who runs the London Cancer carer group) advocating for cervical cancer awareness, prevention, and support in 2025. In this blog you can learn about screenings, HPV vaccinations, and the crucial role of caregivers in the fight against cervical cancer.

To watch the 3 minute Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2025 video, please click below.

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Surviving the Holiday Season as an Unpaid Carer: Tips for Self-Care and Support

Welcome to another blog post by Carer Activist Matthew McKenzie. This blog and video is from my lived experience caring for a close relative and also supporting my brothers.

To watch the video lecture, please click below.

The holiday season is a time filled with joy, celebration, and connection. However, for unpaid carers, it can also be a period laden with stress, isolation, and heightened responsibilities.

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London Anti-Racism Collaboration for Health:

Race Equity Maturity Index (REMI)

Welcome to another blog by Matthew McKenzie Carer activist. As a lived experienced member of the Race Equality Foundation. I am proud to present an exciting project that seeks to address the inequalities in health.

The London Anti-Racism Collaboration for Health (LARCH) have launched a new tool to help health and care organisations tackle systemic racial health inequalities.

The Race Equity Maturity Index (REMI) is the first framework of its kind, allowing organisations to track, measure and enhance their anti-racist activities using an evidence-based approach.

The REMI was designed with people and communities from across London, reflecting the diversity of both London’s population and its health and care workforce.

The REMI is intended to help all the parts of the health and care ecosystem meaningfully address the inequalities faced by Black, Asian and minoritised ethnic Londoners, which include:

Using the REMI, organisations can self-assess their progress in tackling these inequalities. The tool uses measurable indicators to categorise organisations into one of six stages of racial maturity, with clear pathways for progression between each stage.

The REMI can be downloaded on the LARCH website: https://anti-racism.london/index.php/race-equity-maturity-index/

Tackling Cancer And Serious Mental Illness

Tackling Cancer Health Inequalities in Patients with Serious Mental Illness

Addressing health disparities, especially for patients with serious mental illness (SMI), is crucial in improving cancer treatment outcomes. This post by Matthew Mckenzie who facilitates the National cancer carer forum explores the multifaceted challenges faced by this vulnerable group and the necessary steps to tackle these inequalities.

To watch the video regarding Cancer and Serious Mental Illness, please click below.

Before continuing with the post, South East London Cancer Alliance. have just released their Cancer And Serious Mental Illness Information Resource. These have been co-created by SELCA, South London & Maudsley and the HIN, while working closely with people with lived experience of cancer and serious mental illnesses. You can visit and see the resources here: https://www.selca.nhs.uk/patients-and-carers/cancer-and-serious-mental-illness

The following sections might be of particular interest as they focus on cancer risks and screening.

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Carer interview with Maz

Welcome back to another Carer Champion interview. Carers play an essential role in our society, often operating behind the scenes and without pay. In this interview, we meet Maz, a volunteer with Carers UK, who sheds light on the nature of unpaid care work, the challenges carers face, and the significant support networks available for them. Let’s dive into her invaluable insights.

To watch the video, please click play on the video below.

The Hidden Army of Carers

Maz describes unpaid carers as a “hidden army” that tirelessly provides care for loved ones, often without much recognition or support. Unlike professional care workers who are trained and compensated for their services, unpaid carers usually step into the role out of necessity and affection for those they care for. Maz herself is an example of a “sandwich carer,” a term used for someone who cares for both their elderly parents and their adult children.

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Friends, family members and supporters webinar – Panel Discussion from Parkinsons UK

Living with Parkinson’s disease is undeniably challenging, not just for those diagnosed but also for those who support them. During a recent panel discussion from Parkinsons UK, experience of care experts including Matthew McKenzie and volunteers shared their insights and experiences on managing these challenges, offering valuable advice for fellow caregivers. The discussion highlighted key aspects of being on the supporters journey, from communicating diagnoses to seeking support and handling medication concerns. Here, we summarize the essential points covered during the session for a comprehensive guide.

Parkinson’s UK is a leading charity dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by Parkinson’s disease in the United Kingdom. Established in 1969, the organization provides vital support, information, and resources to individuals living with the condition, as well as their families and caregivers. Parkinson’s UK also funds groundbreaking research aimed at finding better treatments and ultimately a cure for the disease.

Parkinson’s UK held a Panel interview to highlight and educate those who are new to the caring role and want to find out more about supporting someone with Parkinsons. Below is a small summary of the panel interview, although if you want to watch the Panel discussion, please click on the video below.

Understanding Caregiving Dynamics

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World Diabetes Day 2024 : Awareness and Prevention Campaign

As someone who has lived experience of caring for a close relative who lived with Diabetes, I took it upon myself to raise awareness on World Diabetes day 2024. This blog and video is by carer activist Matthew McKenzie, also volunteer for Carers UK and part of the London Cancer community of Macmillan Cancer Support.

If you wish to watch my short video to learn about the global campaign on World Diabetes Day. See Below.

In this blog post, you can learn about the global campaign on World Diabetes Day to increase awareness, educate on symptoms, promote prevention, and support research for better treatments and a cure. Plus find ways to get involved in activities and initiatives to aid diabetes prevention and management.

Raising Awareness: World Diabetes Day 2024

World Diabetes Day, observed annually on November 14th, serves as a global awareness campaign aimed at increasing understanding of diabetes and the issues faced by those affected by the condition. This significant day was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization in response to the growing health threat posed by diabetes. The goals of World Diabetes Day are multifaceted, focusing on awareness, education, prevention, access to treatment, advocacy, and support for research. Let’s delve deeper into these critical aspects to understand the importance of this day and how you can contribute.

Understanding the Goals of World Diabetes Day

Increase Awareness

One of the primary objectives of World Diabetes Day is to increase awareness about diabetes. This involves educating the general public about the condition, its symptoms, prevention methods, and the importance of early diagnosis. Raising awareness helps in demystifying diabetes, reducing stigma, and promoting a collective effort towards a common cause.

Educate on Symptoms and Prevention

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to managing health conditions like diabetes. World Diabetes Day strives to educate people on the symptoms of diabetes, which can often go unnoticed until they become severe. By promoting awareness of these symptoms, individuals can seek medical advice sooner, leading to early diagnosis and better management.

Prevention is equally important, particularly for type 2 diabetes. The campaign emphasizes lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, which can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of diabetes is crucial for preventing complications and managing the condition effectively. World Diabetes Day campaigns stress the importance of regular health check-ups and monitoring of blood sugar levels. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can prevent or delay complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, and kidney issues.

Improve Access to Treatment

Affordable and quality care for all people with diabetes is a cornerstone goal of World Diabetes Day. This involves advocating for better healthcare policies and increased funding for diabetes care, ensuring that individuals, regardless of their economic status, have access to necessary treatments and medications.

Advocate for Affordable and Quality Care

World Diabetes Day also emphasizes the need for policy changes at both local and global levels. Advocacy efforts aim to influence healthcare policies to ensure that diabetes care is affordable and of high quality. This includes pushing for the availability of essential medications, including insulin, and ensuring that healthcare systems can support people living with diabetes.

Promote Prevention

Preventing diabetes, especially type 2, is a significant focus of World Diabetes Day activities. By encouraging a healthier lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and stress management, the campaign aims to reduce the incidence of diabetes globally. Public health initiatives and community programs play a crucial role in promoting these lifestyle changes.

Support Research

Supporting research is vital for the advancement of diabetes treatment and technology, and ultimately, finding a cure. World Diabetes Day encourages individuals and organizations to donate to or volunteer for research initiatives. Continued research not only aids in the development of new treatments but also enhances the understanding of diabetes, leading to better management strategies.

Encourage Advancements in Technology

Technological advancements in diabetes treatment have been revolutionary, from insulin pumps to continuous glucose monitoring systems. World Diabetes Day promotes the adoption and development of such technologies, aiming to improve the quality of life for those living with diabetes. These advancements can make management easier and more efficient, allowing for better control over the condition.

Foster Community Support

Community support is integral to managing diabetes. World Diabetes Day activities often include educational workshops, health screenings, campaigns, and fundraising initiatives. These efforts create a sense of community, providing resources and support to those affected by diabetes and their families.

Types of Activities on World Diabetes Day

Educational Events, Workshops, and Seminars

Educational events such as workshops and seminars are a staple of World Diabetes Day. These events are designed to inform people about diabetes management and prevention strategies. Health professionals often lead these sessions, providing valuable insights and answering questions from the community.

Health Screenings

Health screenings are another crucial activity associated with World Diabetes Day. Community centers, clinics, and organizations frequently offer free blood sugar testing and counseling. These screenings can help identify individuals at risk, providing them with necessary information and guidance on managing their health.

Campaigns and Fundraising Initiatives

Campaigns and fundraising initiatives are essential for supporting diabetes research and providing resources for those affected by the condition. These initiatives can range from community walks and runs to social media campaigns and donation drives. The funds raised play a significant role in advancing diabetes research and supporting public health programs.

Lighting Landmarks Blue

The blue circle is the global symbol for diabetes awareness. On World Diabetes Day, landmarks around the world are often illuminated in blue to show support for diabetes awareness. This visual representation serves as a powerful reminder of the global effort to combat diabetes and show solidarity with those affected by the condition.

How to Participate in World Diabetes Day

Spread Awareness

One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to participate in World Diabetes Day is to spread awareness. Use social media platforms to share facts, resources, and personal stories related to diabetes. Engaging in conversations online can help reach a broader audience and inspire action.

Organize or Attend Events

Participating in or organizing local or virtual diabetes awareness events is another excellent way to contribute. These events can range from educational workshops to community health fairs and fundraising activities. By engaging in these events, you can help spread important information and support those affected by diabetes.

Support a Healthier Lifestyle

Taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle is a proactive way to honor World Diabetes Day. This includes eating a balanced diet, incorporating regular exercise into your routine, and managing stress effectively. By making these positive changes, you not only reduce your own risk of developing type 2 diabetes but also set an example for others in your community.

Support Research Organizations

Supporting organizations dedicated to diabetes research is another meaningful way to participate. This can be done through donations or volunteering your time. These organizations play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of diabetes and developing new treatments and, eventually, a cure.

Conclusion

World Diabetes Day is an essential global campaign that addresses the growing health threat posed by diabetes. By increasing awareness, educating the public, promoting prevention, improving access to treatment, and supporting research, World Diabetes Day aims to make a significant impact on the lives of those affected by diabetes. Your participation can make a difference, whether through spreading awareness, attending events, adopting healthier lifestyle choices, or supporting research initiatives. Together, we can work towards a world where diabetes is managed effectively and, ultimately, prevented.