Nottinghamshire Healthcare’s specialist Asperger Service for adults in Nottingham has been highly commended in the national Health Service Journal (HSJ) Awards.
The service was named runner up in the category of Innovation in Mental Health at the recent awards which recognise and reward the best in healthcare in innovation, ideas and dedication. The team was highlighted in a shortlist of eight which was selected from more than 900 entrants; a huge accomplishment.
Asperger syndrome is a developmental disorder characterised by difficulties in social interaction, communication, imagination and forming and maintaining relationships. People with Asperger’s can be prone to bullying and social isolation and at risk of mental health difficulties. The needs and difficulties of people with the syndrome may not be obvious, and so they may have trouble accessing support.
The Nottingham City Asperger service was set up to make diagnostic assessments for people with Asperger syndrome, and develop and deliver short term coordinated packages of support. The service received 116 referrals in its first year of operation.
Clinical problems encountered by adults who access the service have included anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, psychosis, current and historical offending behaviour, and addictions. The service provides a range of clinical interventions specific or tailored to adults with Asperger syndrome, including Psychological therapy, Sensory integration, Speech and language therapy and Occupational therapy.
The service has also set up specialist groups in parenting skills, partner support and social skills training. It is also intended to develop a training programme for carers and support staff of adults with Asperger syndrome.
People benefiting from the service are being helped to live independently, to attend college and university, and to gain or to sustain employment; all of which they might previously have been unable to do due to the symptoms of their illness.
Jackie Dziewanowska, Asperger Nurse Specialist said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been highly commended for the work. However, the real reward is the success of the service and the difference it has made to the lives of adults in Nottingham with Asperger syndrome. Congratulations and well done to all of the team.”
The service has been running since April 2009 and the dedicated team consists of anAsperger Nurse Specialist, Asperger Liaison Nurse, Consultant Psychiatrist, Clinical Psychologist, Speech and Language Therapist, Occupational Therapist, Inclusion Support Worker and Team Secretary.
