As part of an organisational wide approach to challenge the stigma and discrimination that can be associated with mental health, Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership’s (HSCP) Health Improvement Team (Prisons) has encouraged staff who work within prison establishments in Greater Glasgow and Clyde to discuss their mental health. 

Staff from our HSCP and the Scottish Prison Service were invited to participate in discussion sessions to accompany the ‘See Me, Time to Talk’ National Campaign earlier in the year. 

Doris Williamson, Health Improvement Lead (Prisons) said: “A total of 216 staff took part over 27 sessions. Each participant was asked to complete a questionnaire focussing on the impact of stigma and discrimination on mental health and the likelihood of discussing their own mental health with a colleague. Participants were asked to consider their use of language, to ask their colleagues how they were and to listen sensitively to their response. The sessions aimed to teach staff how to recognise stigma and discrimination and how to challenge it positively. The sessions also promoted self-help and organisational support available to staff and how to access it.” 

Doris continued: “Thanks are due to the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Mental Health Improvement Team (hosted in Glasgow City HSCP) who funded the project. This allowed us to give staff who participated in a session a self-care pack containing a selection of hot drinks to have when speaking with a friend / colleague over a tea / coffee. We also included a mental health wellbeing leaflet with details of local support services and a Time to Talk promotional postcard.” 

Doris would also like to thank Claire Marie Blair and Cathy Mulheron for the development of this session and also for their flexibility in delivery to ensure all participants had a positive experience of discussing an often very difficult subject within the prison environment.

Feedback from the sessions was positive. Participants said:

“Good opportunity to check in with colleagues on more than just a superficial level. Also a reminder to take time out for yourself.”

“Wonderful session that encourages seeking help and how to help others. Thank you.” 

“Eye opener, helped me realise it is not just me feeling the weight on my shoulders. Beneficial, more sessions please.”

More information is available by emailing Doris at Doris.Williamson@ggc.scot.nhs.uk.