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Co-Creating Health
FAQs
How much does the self-management programme cost?
What will I have to commit to?
Where and when is the next programme?
What will I be expected to do?
What will the other people be like?
Is the self-management programme like a therapy or treatment?
What next after the programme?
How can I become an SMP tutor?
Can I send in my feedback about the programme?
How much does it cost?
There is no cost to participate in the self-management programme - it is free!
Who is it for?
The self-management programme is for anyone registered with a GP in the Wandsworth Borough, aged 18 or above, who has experience of recurrent or persistent depression. ‘Recurrent’ means having repeat episodes or bouts of depression over a number of years. ‘Persistent’ means experiencing the same episode of depression for six months or more, even if you are receiving treatment (such as medication or talking therapy) for it. We have these criteria because the project as a whole is looking at long-term health conditions and so we need to involve people who have experienced depression over the long term. If you have another mental or physical health condition alongside depression you are still welcome to attend, although the programme will focus on self-management skills in general and on managing depressive symptoms.
If you are not sure whether you would be suitable for the programme or whether it will benefit you, please ring Emily on 0800 030 4225 or email her at helpdesk.cchi@eppcic.co.uk for more details.
What will I have to commit to?
The programme consists of seven sessions which are three hours long and take place once a week. We ask that you make an effort to attend every session on time as this will mean that you will get the most out of the programme. If you have trouble getting to a session just let Tess or Emily know so that the session can start on time.
Where and when is the next programme?
The time, date and location of the next programme have not been confirmed. We are planning to run several programmes over the next three years and are hoping to change the location and time to suit the needs of the participants. If you would like to join the programme and want to discuss your needs, or if would like details on the next programme, please contact Emily on 0800 030 4225 or email her at helpdesk.cchi@eppcic.co.uk for more details.
What will I be expected to do?
The programme consists of group sessions which are run by two tutors. The tutors introduce the discussions and take you through the programme, but participants are very much encouraged to contribute to group discussions. People that have participated in the programme so far say they have benefitted by sharing their experience within a safe and friendly environment. However, there is no pressure to contribute if you do not feel able to and everything discussed within the group is confidential. Each week we also ask you to make and carry out an action plan. Achieving goals you have set out for yourself (however small) is an important part of self-mangement.
What will the other people be like?
The programme is open to all adults of all ages (18 years plus) and to people from all walks of life, but you will all share the fact that you have experienced depression and believe a programme like this will be of benefit to you.
Is the SMP like a therapy or treatment?
No, the SMP is not a therapy or treatment like counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy. It aims to help participants gain a better understanding of their experience of depression and learn the skills and confidence to manage their symptoms in their day-to-day life. Attending the SMP does NOT mean that other care you are receiving will be reduced; it aims to work alongside any care you are receiving. Your treamtent should continue as normal.
If you feel you would benefit from a form of therapy, medication or other treatment you may find it helpful to discuss this with your GP or healthcare professional.
Who delivers the SMP?
The SMP is delivered by a lay tutor (i.e. someone who has experience of self-management and depression) and a clinician tutor (a mental health professional, such as a nurse). Both have been trained in how to deliver the SMP and will be friendly, inclusive and encouraging.
What next after SMP?
We hope that you will be able to put the skills and knowledge you have learnt on the course into practice to help you manage your depression and feel more confident, so that in the future you can live the life you want and achieve the things you’ve hoped to.
Follow-up sessions: We are in the process of organising follow-up sessions, where the group of original participants from each programme meet again. The sessions will allow participants to talk about how they are getting on with the self-management techniques they have learnt and to gain support from others that have attended the programme.
How can I become an SMP tutor?
If you want to get more involved in the SMP and the Co-creating Health initiative, you can train to become a lay tutor for the next SMP.
Can I feedback my views about the programme?
We are always seeking feedback about the programme; we consider this invaluable to the project. If you would like to let us know what you think after being on the SMP or if you want to get more involved in the project as a service user please contact Tess Mawle on 020 8682 6006 or email tess.mawle@swlstg-tr.nhs.uk or complete a feedback form.
