Doors open at new NHS mental health and wellbeing hub in south Oxfordshire

The NHS Keystone centre is located near Sainsbury’s on Limborough Street in Wantage and will serve the people of Wantage. Didcot and Faringdon.

It was opened by Leith Greig-Connor, who represented all members of the public who were involved in the joint creation of the centres.

She was joined Want Mayor Dr Angela Dunford and Trust Chairman David Walker.

Karlie Spice, Clinical Director at Wantage, said: “We are delighted to open our doors to the local community and excited to share the support we can offer.

The new centre opened in Wantage. (Image: NHS)

“Keystone Centers aim to bring mental health support and awareness to the heart of communities, providing quick access to help when and where people need it most.

“I really want people to come and be able to help people when they really need it.”

Ms Greig-Connor is part of the Our Voice group, a patient experience group made up of people who use or have used Oxford Mental health services.

The group has been instrumental in the development of the Keystone Centers since the project began more than three years ago.

“I am very proud to open the Wantage centre on behalf of all the experienced experts involved in the development of the Keystone centres,” said Ms Greig-Connor.

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“As members of Our Voice, we hope that centers will promote accessibility to mental health care.

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“I love seeing malls on the high streets because it shows that looking after your mental health is not something to be hidden or ashamed of.

“Everyone’s mental health is important and getting the help we need is very important.”

Together with mental health professionals, Our Voice identified the challenges people often experienced when moving from GPs to secondary mental health services.

People said they wanted dynamic, responsive and easily accessible support when they felt their mental health was deteriorating.

The center opened earlier this month. (Image: NHS)

This, as well as comprehensive support in all areas of their lives that affect or impact their mental health, is where the idea for Keystone Centers was born.

Adults experiencing mental health problems can receive support from the Keystone Centre through NHS mental health professionals, peer support workers and third sector mental health services.

In addition to mental health care, support is also offered with leisure and socialisation, accommodation, finances, employment, training and education.

Some Our Voice members have moved into permanent paid roles as peer support workers at the centre and will be available to welcome people going through similar experiences to their own.

A special cake was made for the occasion. (Image: NHS)