Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has been selected by NHS England to pilot a proof of concept for an All-Age Keyworking Service. As one of only two systems invited to pilot this initiative, the Trust will be building on the learning from the existing under 25’s offer to shape support for adults.
Keyworkers play a key advocacy role and support people and their families to navigate services and systems. Hence, they receive the proper care at the right time to improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of hospital admission or placement breakdown.
Wendy Ewins, Head of Commissioning and Case Management at Black Country Healthcare said “Being chosen to pilot an all-age keyworking service reflects the hard work and dedication of our team, and our young people - who have continually helped us to improve and develop our offer. We are very excited to explore new ways of working with people over the age of 25, to see what will support them in achieving their goals and aspirations in the Black Country.”
In 2021, Black Country Healthcare was selected to be a national pilot site for keyworking. The idea was to provide children and young people at risk of admission to a mental health hospital, and their families, with consistent support through a keyworker. This approach aimed to prevent inappropriate hospital admissions and support better outcomes for young people.
Aidan who has used the keyworking service explains how it has made a real impact on his life.
“Aidan said: "I think it has given me more confidence to say what I want for my care. I feel my voice is being heard more.
"It's been life-changing. Working with Beck was like I had a friend on my side.”
Over the last three years, the Black Country Healthcare Keyworker team has supported and discharged 195 young people and has been recognised nationally as an area of good practice.