Fife’s director of health and social care says she has been humbled by many examples of kindness shown across the region during the coronavirus pandemic.
Nicky Connor said kindness was essential to mental health, which is a priority for the region’s health and social care partnership.
“Fife Health and Social Care Partnership is committed to caring for the mental wellbeing of communities in Fife and promoting ways to maintain good mental health,” she said.
Ms Connor used Mental Health Awareness Week to highlight how mental health services have responded to covid-19 restrictions.
“We are showcasing the broad scope of work we undertake to support people and how kindness is a fundamental aspect of improving mental health for individuals and communities,” she said.
The Fife Psychology Service set up a staff hub and quiet zone for frontline health and social care staff within a week of lockdown and is now available at locations across Fife, including Maggie’s Centre, Kirkcaldy; Queen Margaret Hospital, Dunfermline; Cameron Hospital, Windygates; and the Ceres Centre, Stratheden.
In communities, mental health support is being provided by Sam’s Café and other organisations.
Based in Kirkcaldy and Dunfermline, Sam’s Café is run by employees who have experienced mental health issues and who are currently offering quick and informal help by chatting to people by phone.
Julie Paterson, divisional manager with the health and social care partnership, said: “There are many examples of the great work being done and how everyone is working together during these unprecedented times.”
