10 April 2024

What is your role within King's Health Partners? 

As an assistant practitioner with the Health Check Liaison Team (HCLT) at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, I help ensure that individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) receive their annual physical health check. 

Our primary goal is to address health disparities and promote equal importance for mental and physical health. We coordinate comprehensive physical health screenings, including blood tests, ECGs, lifestyle assessments, and nutrition evaluations. Additionally, we provide brief interventions and facilitate referrals, both internally and externally. We also share patients' physical health data with Primary Care to keep all involved healthcare professionals informed about their latest health status.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I love connecting with patients and conducting physical health checks. My keen interest in physical health makes this role feel like the perfect fit. Supporting individuals facing mental health challenges while engaging in something I'm passionate about is incredibly fulfilling. It's more than just a job; it's a chance to make a real difference in people's lives, and I'm grateful for the opportunity.

What inspired you to get into this work?

After finishing my undergraduate degree, which wasn't in mental health, I felt lost and struggled with my own mental wellbeing. To understand myself better, I pursued additional studies focusing on cultural and global perspectives in mental health. Even after graduating, I was still passionate about physical healthcare, but I found joy in mental health studies too. I was eager to integrate my newfound knowledge into practice, driven by a strong desire to help others.

What are the benefits of working in partnership?

Besides my daily liaison with professionals, I've had the privilege of collaborating with individuals working across King’s Health Partners. The partnership has opened doors to exciting opportunities aimed at enhancing services for patients across the trusts. It's a supportive community where ideas thrive, and shared goals are achieved more effectively.

What would be your one career top tip?

Stay eager to learn and seize opportunities as they come your way!