MC Magazine - Winter 2022

MC magazine team: Managing Editor: Steve Murphy. Editor: Jackie Rankin.

Contributors: James Blandy, Sophie Brown, Jo Henwood, Steve Murphy, Amy Poole, Emma Wilson.

Editorial: Julie Crompton, Joanne Cunningham, Shae Fowlis.

Photography: Rick Gem, Joel Goodman, Freepik.com, Vecteezy.com Design: Jo Hadfield.

MEMBERSHIP

is

a European-wide law, which governs how organisations can collect, use and transfer personal data. It came into force on 25 May 2018 alongside the new Data Protection Act 2018. As a Foundation Trust, Mersey Care has a statutory requirement to develop and maintain a membership and it is necessary for us to process our members’ personal data to perform this task. Our members are drawn from the public, people who use our services or care for people who use our services and staff. We request and securely hold data on our members, which they provide when joining our membership. The data we hold on our members enables us to show that we are representative of the community we provide

for, to keep members updated through our quarterly MC magazine via email or post and to invite all members to the Annual General meeting. We also engage with all

to nominate themselves to become a governor and to vote in elections for the council of

membership@merseycare.nhs.uk with your details or call 0151 471 2303

WELCOME

Winter days are always spectacular, especially if it’s frosty and sunny.

Winter nights though, need filling with something to do, wholesome food and a peek into the outside world to hear about other people’s lives. We wanted this issue to be a ‘good read’, something to enjoy as you nestle down for winter.

In these pages we peek into the lives of young people and families. We talk to three young women whose childhood was dominated by an eating disorder.

You can read about the country’s first children’s eating disorders service to offer an open door system – where a young person can seek expert help by scanning a QR code (page 8).

Never heard of sound healing? Neither had we until we met up with Jake Jervis, the 24 year old who uses music and meditation to bring together diverse communities in a safe space (page 16).

You’ll also enjoy the powerful story of the people with a newfound confidence through their love of music (page 4).

Razia Alam’s mother would always insist her daughter learnt to cook traditional family recipes. We too can learn the secrets of Razia’s mum’s mouth watering Bengalese chicken (page 24).

Looking to spread your wings and try a new career? Find out about a career with Mersey Care (page 32).

Relax and enjoy winter.

The MC Magazine Team.

Spread your wings this winter.

Former GB fencing team member Jess Forse has fought her own battle against an eating disorder

Read how singer songwriter Ciaran’s music brought him back from the brink.

Darren Brown

SONGS IN THE KEY OF LIFE

By Jackie Rankin

It makes babies go to sleep and people with dementia recall long distant memories. Studies of music’s impact on our psyche even stretch to it giving athletes extra stamina. We visited a project where the power of music is changing lives in an unlikely way.

Darren Brown knows the buzz of performing. He’s been in respected bands and enjoyed a critically acclaimed album.

A psychological practitioner at Mersey Care’s Personality Disorder Hub, Darren (pictured left), also knows that for people who struggle with confidence and being in social situations, the very notion of being centre stage is panic inducing.

He runs a music group at the service’s Hub in Waterloo, Merseyside, and had previously organised performances among a group of service users. He had watched the enjoyment of the audience and wanted to involve them. He decided to do it by stealth.

“I knew they’d never say yes to a straight invitation. I invited them along to listen and have fun, with an added offer to help them with any musical ideas they might have.

“As time went on they would bring along instruments or sing in a room with me. I’d work with them and when I thought the time was right I’d apply a bit of gentle encouragement and say, ‘this is fantastic, you really need to let the group see this’.”

A music festival for both service users and staff was planned for summer 2022. Darren provided the structure service users needed. He also gave them a get out clause.

“I’d say over and over that there was no pressure to perform, that what they had achieved so far was extraordinary. I told them this wasn’t The Voice; it was a collaboration where everyone would be valued for their contribution.”

Privately Darren expected a few people to pull out – but nobody did.

What transpired was a cathartic experience. “There was so much emotion on that stage. I could see changes in body language among people who could never have imagined they could do this”, said Darren.

“Seeing them develop as artists is incredible. They’re grasping the nettle and using music to grow. No one can take it away from you. In future when you have bad times you can reflect on your performance and keep going, knowing you’ve done that before”.

I could see changes in body language among people who could never have imagined they could do this.

Seeing them develop as artists is incredible.

IT MAKES YOU FEEL FREE

The star of a Coca Cola television advert at 16, she’d inherited a vocal talent from her dad.

Life changed when, at 42, Jeanette embarked on a diet in readiness for her marriage. But the dieting didn’t stop. She dropped to five stone, became unable to stand and spent 11 months in hospital. Her relationship broke down and four years ago Jeanette was referred to Mersey Care’s Personality Disorder Hub, where she signed up for a music programme to distract herself from invasive thoughts.

Joining the music group struck a chord. When a festival was mooted as a way of showing what they’d practiced, Jeanette agreed to sing a country and Western song, with Ciaran (pictured right) on guitar.

Performing comes naturally to Jeanette Gates – being told she’s good would leave her highly anxious.

She smiles recalling the feelings it evoked. “People who are crippled with anxiety got up on that stage. We even had an ‘anxiety bench’ at the side of the stage for someone to take time out if nerves got the better of them. Some people were shaking –but they did it. The buzz was incredible. It makes you feel free.”

Yet her best memory from the festival wasn’t the music. “Watching everyone openly giving and accepting praise from each other – for me that was our greatest achievement.”

The buzz was incredible. It makes you feel free.

Country singer and service user Jeanette Gates

MUSIC GAVE ME A REASON TO LIVE

Songwriter Ciaran’s voice is soulful. It’s like he knows what it feels like to hit rock bottom and be on his way back. And he is.

For him music is driven by emotion.

“I remember performing a song I’d written at a festival and seeing people cry, that was something. It opened up an entire world to me.”

His own world crumbled when, exhausted by pressures of work and tortured by mental health issues he’d denied, he turned to substance abuse and lost touch with his beloved music.

“My lows were something I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy.

“Some people connect with music at their lowest point – I just couldn’t. It wasn’t until I needed a reason to live that I put music back to the top of my priorities.”

Homeless with nowhere to go, he managed to board a ferry from Belfast to Liverpool where friends have given him a home and support. “In Liverpool, people accept you. They hear your story and say ‘welcome, you’ll be fine’.“

Now with the Hub, he says he’s ‘halfway there’ on his recovery journey, but scared too. “The further on you are the more you have to lose. But the Hub is the best, it’s a really safe place to be and the music group has been a big part of that.”

Stream Ciaran’s music at: m.soundcloud.com/ciarandelaney

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Interviews by Jo Henwood, Sophie Brown and Jackie Rankin.

Charlotte Moore reflects on her journey as she fought an eating disorder. Page 11.

Heart failure, infertility, permanent memory loss, early death. We look at the stark reality of eating disorders in children. And we talk to the experts doing things differently to save young lives.

Dr Ashish Kumar does not mince his words when he describes how an eating disorder can affect a young person’s life.

“If you leave it too long before seeking treatment the brain shrinks, the heart shrinks. If a girl’s period stops then there can be permanent damage to bone growth causing malformation and lifelong pain. If the periods don’t return quickly, she can be left infertile. If brain function is not restored the person can be left with reduced intelligence and emotional functions. We need to reach these young people early to reverse it quickly and get them better very soon.”

As consultant psychiatrist leading Mersey Care’s eating disorder service for young people, Dr Kumar and his team work with young people aged eight to 18 and their families.

They are saving lives using an evidence based approach that centres around early identification of an eating disorder and intervention with proven therapies. A unique blend of psychological therapies and other vital physical health support is offered to patients and families by a diverse team of dieticians, doctors, therapists, and nurses.

The service is the first in the UK to offer and promote online an ‘open door’ policy. You can refer yourself or someone you have concerns about as a parent or carer by completing a short online form.

Family therapy is a cornerstone of the approach, embracing and empowering parents and siblings of the person with the eating disorder.

Operational manager Lindsay Lawrence says parents can lose sight of their main role as they strive to solve the problem of the eating disorder. “During difficult times no one can focus on anything other than food. We want to empower parents to be parents – to remind them that they still have those parenting skills.”

Referrals have increased dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns and social restrictions were ‘a perfect storm’

for eating disorders. Lack of contact with friends and teachers meant changes were not noticed early.

“During those two years, young people were socially isolated with lots of time to think about negative things and their weight and shape. The message was to go out and exercise, but some children struggled with the concept of eating healthily to maintain it,” recalls Dr Kumar.

He says there are many reasons why eating disorders develop.

WHAT IS AN EATING DISORDER?

Eating disorders are mental health disorders. They include:

• Anorexia nervosa – trying to control weight by not eating enough food, exercising too much or both

• Bulimia nervosa – losing control over how much you eat, binging and then taking drastic action, like making yourself sick, to lose weight and not to put on weight

• Binge eating disorder – eating large portions of food until you feel uncomfortably full.

Source: NHS UK – nhs.uk

Lindsey Lawrence recalls: “Patients would tell us they’d gained weight, but we could see that they hadn’t. We had to find a way to see them face to face.”

“Body changes at puberty is a very common reason. As girls develop breasts and curves and boys start to get muscles, some become very anxious – they don’t want the changes to happen. They associate eating with getting bigger or fatter, so they restrict their food intake.”

The messages children hear from adults can play a part in shaping their views on food. “If someone has eating issues, or if they are very body conscious, they may unwittingly pass that message to the child”, he says.

Another major factor is pressure on children to achieve.

Dr Kumar says: “When young people are under pressure from those around them to succeed in studies or hobbies, they can use food to regain some control over their lives.”

Empowerment comes from good relationships based on close contact with families. During the pandemic, when it was quickly realised virtual appointments would put patients’ health at risk, the team worked round the clock, holding appointments in their waiting area to maintain social distance, and wearing full PPE to regularly check the physical health of patients.

Dr Kumar says it was a vital move. “Young people with an eating disorder can deteriorate very quickly. If we had taken our eyes off these patients there were some who were very likely to die.”

A recognition of the power of social media in young people’s lives has led to a schools and community outreach programme to spread positive messages about food and eating.

Lyndsey recalls the discovery that at one point a hospital ward for children with eating disorders was caring for four children from the same school – all were members of a body image social media group.

“We discovered the group was being shared in school, so we approached their school and were able to work with school nurses on how to spot signs of problems.”

• Read how the service helped 16 year old Aimee on page 10.

• Contact the service – see page 12.

During difficult times no one can focus on anything other than food.

Empowerment comes from good relationships.

Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Ashish Kumar

She’d struggled with eating, but her problems worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. “I became obsessed with exercise”, she said. “I’d spend hours walking and doing high impact workouts.”

She recalls mealtimes, where she’d go to great lengths to hide her behaviour from mum, Suzanne. “We’d eat together,” recalls Aimee “but I’d wrap mine in a dog bag and put it in the bin.”

Alarm bells rang for Suzanne when her daughter’s periods stopped and she began losing her hair. Blood tests were clear, but Aimee’s GP notes included the words ‘possible ED’ (eating disorder). When Suzanne researched she was horrified. “All of the symptoms were happening to Aimee. I felt like I’d been hit by a bus.”

When Aimee was referred to the children and young people’s eating disorder team, she was hiding food, secretly exercising and purging. She also began to self harm and in September 2020, as she should have been starting her GCSE studies, Aimee was being admitted to hospital.

Suzanne was distraught: “She had reached a point where she couldn’t eat at all. We were watching her 24/7.”

The situation was hard for Aimee too. “I wanted to get better, but my eating disorder didn’t want me to get better.”

She responded well to the support she was receiving, including a structured eating regime, but when tragedy struck and her uncle died unexpectedly, Aimee once more stopped eating. The next step was an inpatient eating disorder unit, but thanks to the team’s innovative approach Aimee was able to stay home with expert support.

She is full of praise for her nurse Margie Pardoe. “She would phone every day, but she didn’t focus on the eating disorder. She would ask me how I felt about my uncle –she treated me like a whole person.”

With Margie’s help Aimee responded to treatment, but her method of having some control shifted from food to self harming. Margie supported her through anxiety and depression. Aimee’s weight increased and with individual and family therapy, her mental state has steadily improved.

Suzanne rewarded her daughter’s efforts with a puppy - Jim the dachshund is now a key part of the team. Aimee describes her mum as ‘my rock’ and praised her grandad Roy for his constant positivity.

She shares information about her recovery journey on Instagram and has received many positive messages, including from a young girl who had been inspired to seek help.

Aimee’s advice to others in her position? “When you have no hope and you think this is your life forever, remember – you will never, ever be ill enough for the eating disorder.“

Aimee blogs on @aimsrecovery

NEED SUPPORT?

• Help yourself – our self help guide on eating disorders can be read online, downloaded or watched as a video. visit: merseycare.nhs.uk

MORE HELP

BEAT Eating Disorder Support Online 9am-midnight during the week, 4pm-midnight on weekends and bank holidays. Telephone: 0808 801 0677 Email: help@beateatingdisorders.org.uk

PAPYRUS (prevention of young suicide): 0800 0684 141

CHILDLINE: 0800 1111

CALM Helpline (males only): 0800 585 858

KOOTH.com

SHE TREATED ME LIKE A WHOLE PERSON

Aimee loves meeting friends, listening to music and walking her dog. She’s enjoying college and dreams of becoming a doctor. Yet two years ago, the 16 year old was hospitalised by an eating disorder.

SEE THE SIGNS

It’s easy to miss signs –children go to great lengths to hide the fact that they aren’t eating, says eating disorders service Operations Manager Lyndsey Lawrence. Seeing your child visibly looking thinner in a short space of time should be a cause for concern. Other signs include exercising for more than two hours a day, reducing food intake to less than 500 calories in 24 hours, or noticeable dizziness when standing from a sitting down position.

The child may begin to avoid eating with the family or going out to restaurants together. Wearing thick jumpers might be an attempt to mask body changes. Everything the team does goes back to their core approach – get in early and treat mind as well as body. Says Lindsey: “The benefits of treating someone early are that you’re able to treat the psychological and the physical elements at the same time.“

You can self refer to the service – see page 12 or go to merseycare.nhs.uk

CHARLOTTE’S A FIGHTER

Charlotte is 19 and has ambitions of becoming a firefighter. Four years ago, she was battling an eating disorder.

She now shares her experience on Instagram in the hope of helping others. One of her main messages is about exercising to stay healthy rather than lose weight.

“There are people out there struggling. I say ‘Be open about it. Don’t be too hard on yourself. If something does set you back just say, yeah it was a bad day but I can start again tomorrow’.

“Speak to people about what’s bothering you, be wise about who you follow on social media, look for people whose content aligns with what you feel you need.”

Charlotte can now reflect on a time where she was scared to put weight on and had cut out major food groups. “I was dropping a dress size week by week. I’d do a gym session in the garden, go for a bike ride, then a walk. I wonder now how I did it all.”

Her recovery took two years. During that time she found a personal trainer who encouraged eating more to build up strength.

“I noticed myself getting better, I still had setbacks, but I’d keep on trying.”

Keep moving forward.

She’s concerned at damage caused by gyms providing six week transformation programmes, putting people on very low calorie diets that encourage unhealthy habits.

Her best piece of advice? “You may have setbacks but keep moving forward.”

Don’t be too hard on yourself.

Lyndsey Lawrence, Operations Manager with Mersey Care’s children and young people’s eating disorder service.

Charlotte Moore’s message is exercise to stay healthy.

I was training hard, so I was very muscly.

Around 16 I wanted to be prettier and thinner, but it was only when I began to exercise and eat less that I’d get a high from tracking my food intake. I thought I was happy but looking back I was anxious and defensive. I didn’t want to be around anyone.

“During COVID I’d spend all day exercising and all night running around my room – I’d stay up all night. My parents didn’t believe me, they were confused.”

When the exercise highs stopped Jess turned to a cycle of binge eating, vomiting, and purging. Eventually, weighing just 37kg and unable to climb stairs, she was hospitalised.

It was the turning point in her eating disorder, but Jess began self harming and tried to take her life.

“It was as if I’d let go of the eating side but needed another way of damaging myself.”

GET IN TOUCH

Mersey Care’s specialist children’s eating disorder service is based at Knowsley Resource and Recovery Centre on Whiston Hospital site. The service treats and supports children and young people aged 8 to 18 years old living in Halton, Knowsley, St Helens, and Warrington boroughs with symptoms of an eating disorder and supports their families and carers.

If you are experiencing symptoms of an eating disorder, please don’t delay and make an appointment to see your GP, or use the self referral form which you can reach via the QR code on this page, or at merseycare.nhs.uk

JESS’S SECRET WEAPON

Jess is 19 and studying to teach primary age children. She’s taking a break from fencing – she was in the GB team until recently – to conquer her own foe –her eating disorder.

With the help of her parents and hospital staff in Cheshire, she’s finished sixth form, left home, and is studying to become a primary school teacher.

Her biggest achievement? She works in a café and feels comfortable around food, taking time out for lunch with her mum or friends. She finally feels in control. “I still have those thoughts – but now my body and brain are capable of arguing against them.”

HOW DO I REFER MYSELF OR MY CHILD?

You can self refer through the Mersey Care website: www.merseycare.nhs.uk/childrens-eating-disorder-service or scan the QR code. You can call the team Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm on 0151 430 1321.

Referrals are also accepted from GPs, teachers, school nurses, social workers, CAMHS teams and other health professionals.

I’d spend all day exercising and all night running around my room.

BE YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF

The world of social media can be brutal. But is it also helping us be more open

Tik Tok couple Caitlin and Leah’s posts are full of infectious humour –but it’s their open and raw personal conversations about their mental health and IVF journey that has helped build an eight million strong loyal following.

They share pretty much their every moment –surprising given that both suffer with anxiety. Yet there’s a sense of being in a private session, within a warm support network. You somehow feel free to be your raw self.

The couple will sit and eat with someone who has an eating disorder, chatting to ease anxiety. They’ll joke about the often harsh criticisms that come their way as same sex expectant parents.

They battled nerves when first launching their channel, especially given Leah’s battle with Body Dysmorphic Syndrome, and the underrepresentation of same sex couples on the platform (they’ve been together since 2015). But those same fears pushed them to showcase their vulnerabilities in a bid to help others.

Body Dysmorphia is a mental health condition where a person spends a lot of time worrying about their appearance. It does not mean you’re vain or self obsessed and it can be very upsetting and have a huge impact on your life. source:

Their profile states one simple message: ‘kindness is free’. It works. More than 400 million likes on their videos powerfully drown out negativity and reinforce the idea that there are always more people supporting you than judging you.

There are no limits. It’s honest, relatable, and comforting. But most of all, it embodies freedom; to not be embarrassed about your differences.

To be yourself.

@caitlinandleahh

@caitlinandleahh

NEED SUPPORT?

• Help yourself – our self help guide on social anxiety can be read online, downloaded or watched as a video.

merseycare.nhs.uk

with our thoughts and accepting of ourselves? asks Sophie Brown

Their profile states one simple message: ‘kindness is free.’

THE HEAT IS ON

Energy expert Jimmy Pugh has been supporting families to reduce fuel costs for more than 15 years. This winter crisis is, he says, like no other – he’s had to change his advice to keep people safe.

Jimmy, Project Development Coordinator with the charity National Energy Action, runs energy awareness courses for people struggling to pay their fuel bills.

He’s worried. “We know what’s coming. We’re still sourcing funds for people going through a difficult period and the money from energy companies is welcome. But energy costs are so high that more people will be struggling, and the financial support won’t stretch.”

Jimmy runs sessions at The Life Rooms and at children’s centres across Merseyside. He has changed the focus of his awareness sessions to include ways people can try to control costs and keep warm and healthy.

“We still help people complete forms, access grants or provide top up meter vouchers for emergency and contact suppliers on their behalf if they’re having

issues or paying more than they should be. But we now also explain that what they get won’t cover rising costs. We show them practical things they can do for themselves to keep themselves and their homes warm and healthy.”

Jimmy explains ways to keep hold of the heat you have. “For example, in a house with solid walls, the radiator under your window can lose up to 70 per cent of its heat to outside. For £30 you can buy reflective foil to put behind the radiator. It’s like tin foil –it reflects the heat back into the room.”

He recommends energy efficient appliances like slow cookers and air fryers. “They not only save money, they’re a healthier way to cook.”

Tried and tested methods will provoke a giggle from younger people. “When I suggest putting big curtains on front and back doors to stop draughts, they laugh and say, ‘my nan’s told me to do that’. It’s ‘old school’ but it works!”

Jimmy’s approachable nature and informal style with simple information sheets – sets people at ease.

“I offer ideas but, the best moments are when someone in the group shares their own experiences, when they say “I already do that.” It makes people feel like we’re all in the same situation with the same aims.”

• The Life Rooms Walton, Belle Vale (Lee Valley), Southport and Bootle, are now warm hubs for the community, where you can visit a friendly location during the colder months. Join them for a hot drink as well as access free short courses and one to one advice and support. Visit: liferooms.org

• National Energy Action: nea.org.uk/advice/make-a-referral 0800 304 7159

The best moments are when people share their own ideas.

SAVE YOUR ENERGY

When you’re worried being able to heat your home, giving a helping hand to the planet might drop down your priority list. But opting for sustainable alternatives can reduce bills, stress, and your carbon footprint, writes Emma Wilson.

WHERE CAN YOU SAVE?

• See the light – LED bulbs can reduce your electricity consumption by up to 90%, saving you £38 a year

• Switch off – TVs and other devices on standby still use electricity. Switching off could save you £65 a year

• Take it slow – a slow cooker costs 12p per hour compared to 59p for air fryers, 62p for microwaves and a whopping £1.04 for electric ovens

• Dry up – drying clothes on a maiden instead of a tumble dryer can save £70 a year

• Seal the deal – draw curtains or blinds and seal gaps around windows or doors to save up to £125 a year. Double glazing halves heat loss from windows

• One cup – boil only the water you need for a hot drink

• Shut that door – heat only rooms that are used to between 18 and 20 degrees. Turn your heating down one degree and save around £80.

DID

Home

Source: nea.org.uk

Energy Savings Trust has an online calculator to help you make your home more energy efficient: energysavingtrust.org.uk

HEAT THE HUMAN

Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis has produced a guide based on keeping yourself warm if you’re struggling to heat your home.

‘Heat the Human not the Home’ is something Lewis says he ‘wishes we didn’t have to publish’ – it was his team’s response to an ‘overflowing mailbag full of desperation from people who can’t afford their energy bills’.

Tips include sitting in a sleeping bag with a hot water bottle at the bottom, USB gloves (£5 to buy and 1p per hour to run) and heated insoles (£8 to buy and 1p per hour to run).

There are links to financial and emotional support.

Visit: moneysavingexpert.com

THE GURU OF KITCHEN STREET

Interview by Sophie Brown

He’s currently reaching out to the queer community to provide safe spaces where people can meet up, dance, let go and relax. And he’s asking for help to make the events accessible to all.

“I don’t like labels, we’re all just souls,” says the 24 year old, whose alter ago, Jackie takes centre stage at monthly pride style events at 24 Kitchen Street, a creative space in the Baltic Triangle.

His latest venture, The Queer Circle, set up with his friend, Moon, incorporates yoga and meditation, and a sharing circle where people are encouraged to share their experiences.

One thing is for certain – there’ll be no alcohol at these events.

“People’s mental health is affected by drugs and alcohol”, says Jake. “We need more sober events, where dancing acts as a meditative tool to overcome anxiety and low mood. I know how much yoga, dancing, sound healing, and meditation have helped me, so I want to share it.”

Feedback has flooded in – and it’s overwhelmingly positive. “We couldn’t believe how many people opened up and shared their own stories and struggles.

“The community aspect is so important for people to relate to others.”

The sessions feature sound healing, a practice Jake discovered while working with a Shamanic Practitioner, Lisa Deyki Ray. “I couldn’t believe how much this practice helped me. The sounds can deepen your relaxation and help to clear the mind to create a sense of calmness.”

Jake’s enthusiasm is infectious. Is he always like that? Not always, but it doesn’t matter. “Each morning ask yourself ‘how am I feeling today? Then listen to your body. If you are feeling anxious, that’s ok. If you’re feeling energised, that’s amazing.”

Photo location: Sass & self-help studio.

Jake Jervis is never far from a dance floor. His music based wellness events bring diverse communities together.

We need more sober events, where dancing acts as a meditative tool to overcome anxiety and low mood.

If you are feeling anxious, that’s ok. If you’re feeling energised, that’s amazing.

People’s mental health is affected by drugs and alcohol.

To find out more about events, follow @jervoholistics

THE SKIN YOU’RE

Marvel’s new She-Hulk is far from size zero. Could speaking out against stereotypes make the actress who plays her a real life hero? asks Steve Murphy.

We’re quick to slam the media for pedalling potentially ‘toxic’ stereotypes of zero size women and gym toned men as being the body types that we should all conform and aspire to.

But why do we still look at someone differently depending on their body? Should we be even thinking about their shape and size? Absolutely not says Tatiana Maslany, star of Marvel Studio’s recent streaming sensation ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’.

“I do think we are thirsty for women’s bodies that don’t conform to an idealised feminine image” says the 36 year old, who plays Jennifer Walters, a single, thirty-something whose life is turned upside down when she gains incredible abilities.

Her biggest challenge comes when she’s forced to navigate the complicated life of a huge green super powered hulk.

Maslany told people.com that how people see Jennifer is a major part of the character’s story.

“What I love about She-Hulk is that she represents a different body and a different perception from the outside. That to me is an exciting conversation that can happen around this, like, how do we look at someone differently depending on the body that they inhabit?”

For Maslany, She-Hulk, presents a very different, body type compared to other Marvel movie superheroes.

I think that there’s a cultural obsession with the certain physique that goes along with these movies sometimes.

YOU’RE IN

“I think that there’s a cultural obsession with the certain physique that goes along with these movies sometimes. I certainly fell prey to that idea, and I don’t think it’s a thing that we should be pursuing ’cause it’s just these weird standards that none of us can actually keep up with unless we’re going to the gym 1,000 times a week.”

Maslany has touched upon issues such as this before; in fact, she has a track record speaking out against body shaming, telling Elle magazine“... we’re afraid of bodies. They hold a lot of power – I think that’s why people can try to shame them so easily, because they are so powerful.”

She says she will “never, never understand why people think it’s their business to comment on other people’s bodies,” adding, “talking about other people’s bodies is completely unnecessary – a body is just a body.”

• See page 20 for stars who have opened up about body image.

HELP: Body image is how we think and feel about ourselves physically. Young Minds website offers ways to find help for you or a friend.

MY SON WANTS A SIX PACK

Young men are struggling with how they feel about their bodies, says a study by the Mental Health Foundation. Researchers found three in 10 under 18s had suffered anxiety because of body image issues.

So, should you worry if your young son demands protein shakes for breakfast and a junior gym membership? Not necessarily says Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Ashish Kumar.

“If boys are eating well and exercising to become healthier, that’s a good thing. There may also be a body image element – we’ve all been through the stage of being unhappy with our looks and wanting to be like someone we admired. But unless it becomes obsessive, reassure them, and help them take the steps to improving whatever it is they don’t like. It could be to change their hairstyle, improve their skin, eat a healthier diet, or follow a healthy exercise regime or a sport.”

The danger may come if the problem escalates in someone’s mind, says Dr Kumar. “If they’re unhappy with different things each month it’ll usually pass, but if they’re so obsessed with one aspect of their body that it stops them seeing friends or it affects their education, or if they’re spending hours each day trying to mask or change it, they may need help from you or someone else they trust.

“Teachers can offer support, but your child may feel more secure talking to pastoral care staff, school nurses, school counsellor or learning mentors. If that person is concerned it might be time to seek professional help.”

• Find out more at nhs.uk

You’ll like her when she’s angry. Tatiana Maslany stars as Jennifer Walters whose life turns upside down when she gains incredible abilities.

Extractions from interviews with people.com, Entertainment Tonight and Elle magazine.

Pictures courtesy of Marvel Studios’ She-Hulk: Attorney At Law’, available exclusively on Disney+. @2022 MARVEL.

Source: mentalhealthfoundation.org

STARS WHO HAVE OPENED UP ABOUT BODY ISSUES

Many of us care about how we look and appear to others – the way we see ourselves and our bodies is part of our own body image – our body confidence.

There are many factors which may influence this, including the media and social media and those who work in the entertainment industry are just as vulnerable to having a negative body image as anyone else. Here’s some who’ve spoken out:

• Musician Demi Lovato has struggled with the eating disorder bulimia for many years. She posted on Instagram ‘Tell yourself you’re beautiful daily. Be gentle with yourself. Eat carbs without guilt and remember that life is too short to worry about what others think!’

• Actress Lili Reinhart – Riverdale’s Betty Cooper – has talked about her own negative body image, telling instyle.com: “It’s challenging to look at your body with love instead of criticism. It’s a practice I’m still learning.” She wished that she hadn’t, ‘grown up in a time where the media worshipped only one size of women.’

• Singer Sam Smith told NME that being part of the music industry they felt pressured to look a certain way, saying that; “for women, the pressure in this industry is horrendous and it’s got to stop. But it’s the same for guys, even though they won’t speak about it.”

• Super group Little Mix who’ve faced criticism and public scrutiny of their figures are on the record as saying that they’ve learned to not care what others think. “It’s hard to take when you’re young, but now we’re more confident. We’re happy to be how we are, and don’t care if we put on a couple of pounds.”

Former Little Mix member Jesy Nelson (pictured above), who has spoken about abuse she has suffered at the hands of cyberbullies told the BBC; “If you can rock your body with confidence, and you’re happy in your own skin, there’s nothing sexier. I feel like we’re all in a really good place with how we feel about ourselves.”

HOW TO HAVE HEALTHY SELF ESTEEM

We all have times when we lack confidence and do not feel good about ourselves.

To boost your self esteem, it’s good to identify the negative beliefs you have about yourself, then challenge them.

You can find more about dealing with low self esteem, including practical hints and tips at: nhs.uk/ mental-health/self-help/tips-andsupport/raise-low-self-esteem

Jesy Nelson

Singer Sam Smith felt pressured to look a certain way.

WHEN

DAD GETS

THE BABY BLUES

By Jo Henwood

Former Blue Peter presenter Simon Thomas has spoken openly about his feelings when wife Derrina Jebb needed an emergency Caesarean section following a diagnosis of pre-eclampsia.

Speaking to the Jeremy Vine on 5 show, Simon talked about the ‘utter fear’ of whether his wife and premature baby were going to be ok.

His situation is not uncommon.

Consultant Clinical Psychologist Dr Ruth O’Shaughnessy says partners of an expectant or new mum can often be affected by adverse events during childbirth and other unexpected changes in relationships and mental health during the pregnancy.

“When things don’t go to plan for mum it can have a lasting impact on a partner as well as baby, other siblings and even the wider family,” says Ruth.

As part of the team at Cheshire and Mersey Specialist Perinatal service, Ruth supports women experiencing mental health difficulties before, during or after the birth of their baby.

The team recognises the impact on partners and offers dedicated support for dads and same sex partners during pregnancy, birth and in the two years afterwards (read Anthony and Sarah’s story on page 23).

Having a baby is a significant transition, says Ruth. “Couples may be floored by the changes that happen when a baby is born. Factors such as lack of sleep, added responsibility, family relationship changes, role changes, worry about becoming a parent

or about bonding with baby, and financial pressures, can all build up.

“Men can, find it hard to talk about their mental health, so when their partner is suffering, they may push away their own needs and feelings because they are worried about putting more pressure on her. Dads can also worry about what people will think if he seems not to be coping. Men may experience perinatal mental health symptoms differently, says Ruth.

‘They might use more avoidance strategies like, exercising more, working more or wanting to be away from home. They might also be feeling angry or irritable, drinking more alcohol or smoking”.

Family Therapist Karen Seal says our own childhood experiences can affect how we approach parenting. “Some people will want to replicate what they experienced as a child and others will want to repair their experience and break patterns.”

Space to talk is essential, says Karen. “There can be a ripple effect. For example when one person is struggling the partner may need to step in and help more with the baby. With less time for each other the couple can become more distant.

“We work with whole families. couples and offer a space to each partner individually. Partners can be uncomfortable about opening up with the mother present as they feel protective, so offering this time and space to fully understand how they are doing is important.”

• If you feel you, or a family or friend, needs the specialist perinatal service, contact your GP.

Dr Ruth O’Shaughnessy supports families

Men can find it hard to talk about their mental health.

I DIDN’T FEEL NEEDED

WHAT THE GUIDEBOOKS DON’T TELL YOU

Perinatal service family therapist Karen Seal wants guidance for parents to include emotional as well as practical support.

“Often the focus is on practical things with less time spent on the emotional aspects.

“There isn’t the space to think about the impact that having a baby will have on you as a couple – how you will maintain closeness, dividing tasks, whether you agree on parenting decisions.

“Parents then face these difficult dilemmas when they’re sleep deprived and capacity for conversation is low. There is often conflicted advice so they can go against their instincts and become overwhelmed thinking their baby isn’t doing what they ‘should’ do.”

GET THE DAD PAD

The team supported the launch of Dad Pad, a free app with advice and resources for dads living in Cheshire and Merseyside. The Co-Parent Pad, to be launched in 2023, will provide key resources and an online community forum for transgender and LGBTQi parents.

WHAT IS THE DAD PAD?

A free to download app with advice and resources for dads or dads to be. Put in your postcode to access local services or find top tips on how to care for your new baby as well as looking after yourself and your family. Topics include understanding antenatal care, mental health and getting to know your baby.

TOP TIPS for a healthy relationship

• Put your phones down and don’t let technology get in the way of your time together

• Remember what you enjoyed together before baby arrived and try to find time to enjoy it again

• Ask for help if you need it

• Take time to notice the joy you get from your baby.

Download the Dad Pad app free from your usual app store or scan the QR code. You can also find details at merseycare.nhs.uk

Karen Seal

Sarah and Anthony Bowers were looking forward to welcoming their third child together, but COVID-19 restrictions meant Sarah endured the early stages of her induced labour by herself. Although Anthony was allowed in to welcome their daughter Nancy into the world, Sarah felt a deep sense of isolation.

Events took a turn for the worse when baby Nancy struggled to feed. The little girl was diagnosed with an infection in her umbilical cord and was kept in hospital. While Anthony was picking up a change of clothes for his wife, Sarah collapsed and was admitted with a sepsis infection in her uterus.

With Sarah in hospital, unwell and separated from her baby, Anthony was called upon to make important decisions about Nancy’s treatment. A strong bond developed between dad and baby.

Nancy recovered and thrived, and within a year Sarah became pregnant again. But she was unable to relate to her unborn son and terrified by the prospect of giving birth in hospital.

Anthony admits that when Sarah shared her feelings, he didn’t know how to react or help.

Crisis point for Sarah came when she found herself in her car with Nancy, facing a wall, revving the car engine.

“I was going to drive into that wall, I was suicidal”, she recalls. Instead, she went to her GP and was given an appointment with the specialist perinatal team the next week. They allayed her biggest fear – that her other three children would be taken away.

She recalls: “They were so reassuring and told me they were not there to judge.”

Assessments revealed Sarah’s anxiety was based on the trauma she had experienced during Nancy’s birth. A mental health midwife supported her through pregnancy and Sarah bonded immediately with their son Henry. But Anthony didn’t easily settle into the traditional father role.

He explains: “Because Sarah was unwell, I’d been very involved with Nancy’s care. This time I felt I wasn’t needed.”

The couple embraced the perinatal team’s suggestion of online therapy, mediation and exercise. Anthony

would link in from his work van, Sarah from home. Anthony concedes that Sarah was the catalyst for their involvement, but he’s glad they took part and now shares his newfound knowledge with workmates.

“I’m not great at dealing with my emotions, but I enjoyed it. We got to understand each other’s behaviour and why we did or said certain things. We’ve learnt parenting skills and how to support each other – without it we would probably have ended up divorced.”

HELP IS AT HAND

Silver Birch Hubs: a free NHS support service working with women, birthing people and families to offer psychological and emotional support.merseycare.nhs.uk/our-services/liverpool/mater nal-mental-health-service Twitter @silverbirchhubs

Parents in Mind: support women experiencing emotional health difficulties in pregnancy and within the first two years after birth.

Holly Flynn North West Project Manager Tel: 07562 207 644 Email: Holly.flynn@nct.org.uk

Everton in the Community: a range of programmes aimed at supporting mental wellbeing Evertoninthecommunity.org

Having a mediator was great – we got to understand each other’s behaviour and why we did or said certain things.

Anthony and Sarah say support from the perinatal team has strengthened family bonds.

A TASTE OF BENGAL

Community Inclusion worker Razia Alam (pictured) shares the secret of her mother’s hearty chicken curry.

I was born and bred in Liverpool, but my background is Bangladeshi. Food has always brought my family together.

As a child there was always a traditional dish on the table, home cooked by my mum or dad. If friends or family members came to visit, or even if they just stopped to say helIo, there would always be something ready. My mother would never take no for an answer!

As a teenager she’d pester me to learn how to cook, saying ‘you’ll have a family one day!’ She taught me her amazing recipes and I’ve now passed them on to my own daughters.

“My mum’s hearty chicken curry with potato, peppers, and cauliflower is very close to my heart. It’s delicious, authentic and can be eaten with rice or any type of bread.”

RAZIA’S MUM’S CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE CURRY

SERVES: 4

INGREDIENTS

1 medium chicken cut into 10 or 12 pieces

2 medium onions

3 fresh chillies (more if preferred)

5 cloves garlic

Small cube ginger

Half red pepper

2 fresh tomatoes

1 medium cauliflower

3 medium potatoes

Fresh coriander

1 stick cinnamon

3 bay leaves

3 cardamons

3 pinches cumin seeds

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp dried turmeric powder

1 ½ tbsp chilli powder (more if preferred)

1 dried coriander

½ tbsp cumin powder

1 ½ tbsp garam masala powder

3 tbsp of olive oil

METHOD

• Pour oil into a pan, heat for 10 to 15 seconds

• Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cinnamon stick and cardamon

• Let spices infuse for about 10 seconds

• Add onions, chillies, garlic and ginger

• Add salt to taste, it helps to soften the onions

• Add all spices and stir for a few minutes

• Add chicken and stir for 10 minutes.

(If spices stick to the pan at any point add a little water and stir)

• Add in potatoes and red peppers and stir

• Add water to your required gravy thickness

• Cook on a medium heat for 40 to 50 minutes.

(After 25 minutes add cauliflower florets and tomatoes. Check potato is cooked, if yes garnish with fresh coriander)

• Add whole chillies (optional)

• Taste and add extra salt, if needed. Serve with rice or bread.

The Life Rooms are offering their sites in Liverpool and Sefton as warm hubs during the colder months. Join them for a warm drink as well as sign up for free short courses and have fun. They offer one to one advice and support for benefits, housing, energy bills and other issues.

All Life Rooms sites have PCs you can use and courses to help you improve your IT skills. Walton and Southport sites have libraries and quiet corners to read. To find out more about The Life Rooms service visit liferooms.org or call 0151 478 6556

TAKE CARE THIS WINTER

You’re precious, don’t ever stop taking care of yourself. It can be hard, especially if you’re feeling unwell or anxious. There are lots of things you can do to keep warm, well and positive, even when the nights are long.

Health lecturer Deborah Winks offers sound advice. She says focus on what you can do in winter, rather than what you can’t.

“Get outside as much as you can. Daylight regulates sleep and lifts your mood and there’s nothing better than coming home to a warm house after a nice winter walk,” says Deborah.

Plan ahead, maybe organise a film night on a Friday with a picnic tea on a blanket on the floor, a games night either in person or on Zoom, or an indoor project.

Even kids bedtime can be a ritual to be enjoyed says Deborah: “Every evening at bed time, myself and my son tell each other about our ‘lovely days’ and we do the ‘best’ and ‘worst’ of the day. This is something I really look forward to and I know that hearing my son’s ‘best’ supports my positivity.”

Winter can intensify stress, anxiety and loneliness. This series of colourful animations offer tips and advice.

Visit: merseycare.nhs.uk/ help-us-help-you

By choosing the right health service, you will be better placed to look after yourself and others. If you need same day urgent care, contact NHS 111 online or by phone, it’s available 24 hours a day seven days per week. They’ll know the best service for your needs.

However, if its an emergency or a serious injury, please dial 999 or go straight to A&E.

Source gov.wales

People in crisis who are at risk of being admitted to hospital may be eligible for a new service offering urgent two-hour assessment and support within 48 hours, for a short time.

The service is run by health and social care professionals to help people recover quickly and keep their independence. Those eligible to be referred by their GP, health professional or 111, include people who have had a fall, have become increasingly frail or where their normal care has broken down.

For full eligibility and referral details go to: www.merseycare.nhs.uk/2hr-ucr

to a range of self help guides and apps. They cover topics from stress to sleep and can be read online, downloaded or printed.

Have a smartphone? Visit merseycare.orcha.co.uk to download clinically approved apps on smoking, mental health and other topics.

WINTER

ACHES AND PAINS

CAN I TAKE PARACETAMOL AND IBUPROFEN TOGETHER?

Pain can feel harder to cope with during the cold and wet months of winter. Joint aches, muscle pain and even hangovers can be more difficult to manage and leave us feeling the worse for wear.

Non prescription, over the counter medicines like paracetamol and ibuprofen can relieve symptoms of colds, headaches, joint and muscle pain, sinusitis, or painful middle ear infection (earache).

But sometimes paracetamol alone is just not enough, so it’s good to know that if you’re 16 or older, NHS advice is that it is safe to take paracetamol and ibuprofen together, at the same time or spaced apart.

If you’re troubled by every day, short lived pain you can take a dose of paracetamol followed by a dose of ibuprofen two hours later. But be aware that you should never take more than eight paracetamol tablets in any 24 hours.

Consider whether you need to take both types of pain relief. Importantly, check how they might react with any other medications you may be taking, especially if your other medications contain paracetamol.

• Your pharmacist can offer advice. If your painful symptoms don’t improve after three or four days, contact your GP or call NHS 111.

For medicines advice visit: nhs.uk

Yet earlier that year she’d been medically discharged from the Army with mental health issues.

As a young talented musician – she plays saxophone and clarinet – Laura planned to study music. But with a mental health nurse mum and a dad in the RAF, she was torn between nursing and the armed forces.

The forces won, and though initially rejected by her local Army reserves because she didn’t meet the physical health criteria, Laura took a year out, trained hard and joined the Band of the Welsh Guards.

She enjoyed regiment life, performing at the Trooping of Colour Parade and Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace. But following traumatic life events Laura developed anxiety, depression, and a recurrence of bulimia.

“Most people had physical disabilities but when we talked, so many had mental health issues too,” she recalls. “I understood how important mental health is and realised my future was in mental health nursing. I wanted to change things for people in my position and to be able to help others.”

With support from Help the Heroes, therapy and the ‘right medication’, Laura began a journey of recovery and fulfilment.

While studying for a nursing degree at Liverpool John Moores University, her passion for supporting disabled students to access their entitlements saw her involved in shaping policy. She’s twice been shortlisted for accolades in the Nursing Times student awards.

Laura is now a staff nurse on Mersey Care’s Broadoak Unit, an acute inpatient mental health facility. But she’s not done with Invictus. She’s back from a selection camp and is hoping she’ll be part of the on site medical team for the 2023 Games in Düsseldorf, this time sponsored by the Royal British Legion.

She recalls the stigma that still existed in the forces. “Some colleagues would cross the road when they saw me, so they didn’t have to talk about it.”

A year later Laura was medically discharged. She was supported by Help for Heroes and went on to represent Team UK for the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick service men and women. It was while talking to other athletes she discovered she wasn’t alone in her mental health struggles.

“The camps are incredible. I’d forgotten how special this environment was, for people to have a safe space where they can be themselves without fear of judgement and appreciate the power sport can have in recovery for both your mental and physical health.”

Nurse Laura Knowles’ proudest moment was taking part at the 2016 Invictus Games in Florida. With a silver and bronze in rowing, the 25 year old was on top of the world.

The camps are incredible. I’d forgotten how special this environment was.

I wanted to change things for people in my position and to help others.

HELPING HEROES

by Jackie Rankin

Interview

ROB’S STORY

In 2013, Rob was about to end his life when he remembered an old note in his wallet with messages of support from his friends. It saved his life.

The former army officer shares his story as part of the campaign. “It is important for your friends to spot things and check in from time to time,” he said. “Even if it’s just talking to someone on the phone that can lift your spirits in my personal experience. “Taking the training is really important. It could be one week, one month, one year where you suddenly come across somebody where that training is going to come into use. But if you’ve got that training, it will really help. And in terms of really help, let’s be honest, it could save somebody’s life.”

WE OWE IT TO OUR VETERANS

Coronation Street star and Help for Heroes patron Antony Cotton is backing a new suicide awareness training for veterans.

The training teaches people how to spot the signs that a veteran might be feeling suicidal and signpost them to the right support.

Antony, who plays Sean Tully in the ITV soap, lost his friend and veteran Joel to suicide.

“If we can change the culture, we can discuss mental health, we can arm ourselves better so that we’re approaching the subject weeks, months, years before,” he said. “Silence is a disease. Talking is the cure. We owe it to our veterans to help them.”

Research carried out by YouGov on behalf of Help for Heroes revealed one in three of the UK’s two million veterans* have felt suicidal in their lifetime.**

Veterans who are struggling with suicidal thoughts are more likely to turn to family and friends for support than a trained professional.**

Zero Suicide Alliance has launched the training with Help For Heroes through the charity’s ‘Read between the Lines’ suicide prevention initiative.

For more information: Take the veteran training –zerosuicidealliance.com/veteran-suicide-awareness-training Support the between the lines campaign –helpforheroes.org.uk/between-the-lines/useful-resources/

Ministry of Defence (2019) Research by YouGov Plc into mental health and suicide in the GB adult population and the Armed Forces Community. July 2022, total sample size of 8346 adults, including 455 veterans.

Coronation Street star Antony Cotton

THE GOOD

DRINKER

His new book The Good Drinker – How I Learned to Love Drinking Less is a manual for anyone wanting to stop the heavy stuff and drink sensibly.

Chiles wrote it to fill a gap in information on drinking in moderation after a lifetime of consuming up to 14 units – the governments weekly alcohol guidelines – in one day.

Were the signs ignored? No says Chiles, they weren’t there.

He told BBC’s Tina Daheley, “Drinkers like me often end up in trouble precisely because we don’t display many of the obvious side effects of heavy drinking, such as terrible hangovers, florid complexions, huge beer bellies and so on. We can fly under our own radar, which is generally a risky way to proceed.”

He was downing the equivalent of 10 bottles of wine, 34 pints or two and a half bottles of whiskey every week.

“If you line up all the drinks I’d drunk since I was 15 (he was then 50)... that line would be three miles long, which is a lot of poison to put through your system.

“I asked myself how many of those drinks did I want or enjoy and the answer is probably about a third – the rest was just drinking pointlessly. Drinking because I was out. Drinking because I couldn’t think of anything else to do. Drinking because there’s half a bottle of wine in the fridge. Just drinking out of habit and that was taking its toll.”

The book details how to plan ahead and choose what days and times you’re going to drink. “I value what I do drink a bit more”, he says.

Counting what you drink he says, is boring but essential.

“I use the drinklessalcohol app. That way I can work out which of those drinks did I enjoy, which one did I need?

Don’t torture yourself with it, don’t shame yourself but just do it”.

He now drinks between 20 and 25 units a week, he says. “That’s still too much... but it’s a dramatic start. And if I can do it anyone can”.

By Steve Murphy

The Good Drinker

– How I Learned to Love Drinking Less by Adrian Chiles, is published by Profile Books and is available now in hardback or ebook.

Find out MORE AT:

The NHS has some simple tips and tools to help you start cutting down today. Go to: nhs.uk/better-health/drink-less

The Drink Less Alcohol App is free to download and use. Go to: drinklessalcohol.com

• Help yourself –our self help guide on alcohol and you can be read online, downloaded or watched as a video. merseycare.nhs.uk

Broadcaster Adrian Chiles liked a drink: it was a way of life. When specialists diagnosed liver damage he realised he had to reassess his relationship with alcohol. But he didn’t want to go teetotal.

I asked myself how many of those drinks did I want or enjoy?

There’s opportunities in children’s services, physical health, mental health, so to a certain extent there’s a place to fit your (career) requirement.

Stephen Temple, Staff Nurse, Rowan View Medium Secure Hospital.

A FLYING START

Spread Your Wings and work for Mersey Care, a leading mental, and physical health, learning disability and community health NHS Foundation Trust in North West England.

There’s an extensive range of exciting and challenging opportunities for people who are passionate about making a difference.

A huge variety of roles are being offered throughout the Trust, including in dentistry, psychiatry and nursing, as well as non clinical positions in administrative and frontline health support services.

We’re especially seeking doctors, mental health and learning disability nurses, allied health professionals and pharmacists.

With such a wide selection on offer no matter what your interests, skills, qualifications or previous experience (some jobs include fully paid training opportunities) –there could be a job for you.

DON’T TAKE IT FROM US

Find out for yourself what our staff think about working for us and living in the North West (page 34).

If what they say gets you thinking, find out more on living and working in Cheshire, Merseyside, Lancashire and Greater Manchester in our short film: merseycare.nhs.uk/spread-your-wings

Let your career take flight; find out how you can spread your wings at: merseycare.nhs.uk/jobs

Artist Graham Gardner’s evocative artwork at the centre of the Spread Your Wings film was in part, inspired by the Global Wings Art Project, born courtesy of American artist, Collette Miller.

She began painting angel wings on buildings during 2012 in Los Angeles. The Global Angel Wings Project can be seen worldwide and has become a social media sensation.

SALOME MARE WALSH, Mental Health Nurse, moved to the North West from London: “There’s a bigger community spirit here than in London. The air is cleaner, you can drive just five or ten minutes… and be in green spaces”.

GOING GLOBAL

HEATHER RYAN, General Practitioner and mum of two young children:

“Quality of life is much better here. In summer we go to the beach most days. Compared to the Midlands and the South housing is very affordable. We got a four bedroom detached house for less than we’d pay for a flat in London”.

film: merseycare.nhs.uk/spread-your-wings or go to: merseycare.nhs.uk/jobs

Quality of life is much better here.

IAN RAVEN

Lead Convenor for Unite the Union, and staff side chair of 12 trade union professional councils: Staff Side Governor

I believe if you want to create real change it needs to be done collectively. The Mersey Care board and I don’t always agree, but we’ve found a way, by using humanity in our conversations to create a partnership, so that change works for everyone.

I’ve been involved in the development of our Restorative Just and Learning Culture, where, when an incident happens, we no longer ask ‘who was responsible, we ask ‘what was responsible?

It’s taken time to trickle down and be embedded into policies, but now there’s more understanding of why things go wrong, a realisation that no one comes to work to create harm.

Now I talk to other trusts, organisations and trade unions to share policies, give guidance, and help them understand we’re not taking away the role of trade unions, but there are other methods of finding a resolution for everyone.

I think we’ve proven it’s more than an idea on paper. It never stops – we’ve gone from 4,000 to 11,000 staff across a big geographical footprint and every time we grow we need to educate our new colleagues on what we want in Mersey Care.

I’m also a grandad and an Army veteran – both my sons are now in the Army; my daughter is a frailty nurse, and my wife works at another NHS trust. I sit on the armed forces covenant group, and I’m delighted we have lots of veterans in clinical services. They’re such an important point of contact for ex-forces patients, they can truly empathise. We need to use the transferable skills that military people can offer.

I’m enjoying my governor role. It’s so important to have good governors, to hold the executives to account. I’m finding out more about services from our service user governors. It’s a lot of work along with my other roles, but it’s a chance to take myself out of that trade union environment and listen to what people think of the Trust. It’s rare we get to hear that, and as I’m finding out, there’s plenty of good news.

COME AND JOIN US

To learn more about our Council of Governors, go to merseycare.nhs.uk

Do you have any views or suggestions for improvement? Contact your Governor representative: Tel: 0151 471 2303 Email: merseycare.cog@merseycare.nhs.uk or write to: Alison Bacon, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, Corporate Affairs, 1st Floor Hollins Park House, Hollins Park, Hollins Lane, Winwick, WA2 8WA

You can view Ian’s Governor profile along with the rest of our Council of Governors at: www.merseycare.nhs.uk/about-us/council-governors Become a Mersey Care member. Follow the link: https://secure.membra.co.uk/Join/MerseyCare. You can also call 0151 471 2303.

Real change needs to be done collectively.

Time for your career in healthcare to take off. Find your next role in a more encouraging, rewarding environment. Visit merseycare.nhs.uk/jobs and soar into your new role.

Contact details

Got some news you’d like to share? Contact us at the following address.

Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, V7 Building, Kings Business Park, Prescot, Merseyside L34 1PJ Telephone: 0151 473 0303 Email: communications@merseycare.nhs.uk

MC MAGAZINE is published by Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust and produced by the communications team, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, V7 Building, Kings Business Park, Prescot, Merseyside L34 1PJ T: 0151 473 0303 E: communications@merseycare.nhs.uk W: merseycare.nhs.uk. MC MAGAZINE is available in other formats on request.