bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thrombocytopenia in Neonates Undergoing Exchange Transfusion of Blood for Severe Neonatal Jaundice
Authors: Bakht Saba , Riaz Sohaib , Ayub Nidda , Sajid Syed Khurram
Published: January 2023

Objective: To determine the frequency of thrombocytopenia in neonates undergoing exchange transfusion of blood for severe neonatal jaundice. Methodology: Total 200 neonates fulfilling the selection criteria were included in the study from neonatology unit, The Madinah Teaching Hospital Faisalabad during Nov, 2020 to October 2022. An informed consent was taken from parents. Demographic information (name, age, gender, and contact) was obtained. Then all neonates underwent exchange transfusion under standard procedure. After exchange transfusion 3cc Blood sample was obtained with the help of a staff nurse by using butterfly needle and 5cc BD syringe under aseptic measures. Sample was sent to the laboratory of the hospital for platelet count. If platelet count was found below 100.000/dL, thrombocytopenia was labelled (platelet count in complete blood count is <100,000/dL assessed at the end of exchange transfusion). Results: In our study, the mean age of the patients was calculated as 15.17+4.85 days. Gender distribution reveals that 94(47%) were male and 106(53%) were females. Frequency of thrombocytopenia in neonates undergoing exchange transfusion of blood for severe neonatal jaundice was recorded in 15(7.5%) of the cases, and among them 7(46.7%) were between 1-14 days and 8(53.3%) were between 15-28 days of life, p-value=0.533, regarding gender 5(33.3%) were male and 10(66.7%) were females, p-value=0.203. Conclusion: We found that the rate of thrombocytopenia in neonates having blood exchange transfusion for severe neonatal jaundice was not significantly greater than the rate in other studies. However, our results are from a single site and need to be confirmed by additional multicenter local investigations. Keywords: Severe neonatal jaundice, exchange transfusion of blood, thrombocytopenia
Synthesis, characterization and biological activity of new complexes from Manniche base ligands derived from amoxicillin
Authors: Shihab Afraa Saber
Published: January 2023

The importance of Manniche bases increased in pharmaceutical research, especially those prepared from pharmaceutical compounds. The study aims for an alternative design of a Manniche base of amoxicillin from sodium saccharin and benzaldehyde and ensures their consistency with some salts of transition elements Co (II), Ni (II), Cu (II), and Mn(II). They determined the expected stereo isometries of the resulting complexes Where the prepared complexes took the form of octahedral by diagnosing them by appropriate spectral and physical methods, infrared spectra (FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR), accurate analysis of elements (C.H.N.S), Molar conductivity and measurement of melting points.  The biological efficacy of all prepared compounds was studied, and two types of bacteria (Staphylococcus Aurous) and (Escherichia coli) were selected. Inhibition of bacteria at concentration (10-3) were studied.
Going online: Reflections from a therapeutic parenting group
Authors: Matthews Tom , Higgins Emily , McCann Hayley
Published: January 2023

An exploration of the experience of moving a therapeutic parenting group intervention online, necessitated by the Covid-19 pandemic. Two online formats are described, and reflections by participants are offered, from which the benefits for such an approach became evident.
Emerging into the daylight after Covid: How can clinical psychology be effective?
Authors: Bender Mike , Wainwright Tony
Published: January 2023

The emergence of the United Kingdom from the pandemic will make clearly visible two separate, but overlapping, vistas: very high levels of economic hardship, alongside high levels of emotional distress and mental illhealth. This article discusses the most appropriate role for clinical psychologists in this situation.
The Helen Bamber Foundation Community Group: A psychosocial approach for asylum seekers and refugees with experiences of extreme trauma
Authors: Robert Rachel , Argyriou Angeliki
Published: January 2023

Survivors of human rights abuses often present with significant mental health difficulties as well as social and integration problems. We present a community-based approach that helps address social isolation and integration difficulties, and can complement evidence-based psychological therapies.
Staff attitudes towards service users with a diagnosis of a personality disorder on acute psychiatric wards
Authors: Gedara Chandrika Kambakara , Harpur Ruth Ann , Jakobsen Hanne , Riches Simon
Published: January 2023

This study investigated acute inpatient staff (N=18) attitudes towards people with a personality disorder diagnosis. Themes of intentional acting out behaviour, emotional challenge, united team, good professionalism, psychology input, and service user-run training indicated some negative attitudes and training needs.
Development of a staff support service in response to the Covid-19 crisis in Berkshire
Authors: Saunders Jessica , Livsey Sophie , Kohl Diane , Piper Linda , Davies Ruth , Evans Isabelle
Published: January 2023

This paper summarises reflections, learning and improvements from the experience of having developed a staff support service for frontline healthcare staff in response to the Covid-19 outbreak in Berkshire.
What can psychologists offer teams after difficult events?
Authors: Thomas-Unsworth Sadie , Berger Zoe , Conniff Harriet , Farrington-Exley Joanna
Published: January 2023

The pandemic has resulted in an unprecedented amount of attention being given to the psychological wellbeing of healthcare staff. But the role of psychological interventions has been controversial, particularly in the context of psychological debriefing. This paper sets out the reflections of a group of psychologists involved in delivering these interventions for many years together with suggestions for how we move forward.
The ‘Amber Consultation Service’: An audit of a systemic consultation service in a Community Learning Disability Team
Authors: Humphrey Charlotte , Jervis Nicola
Published: January 2023

This article describes an audit of ‘The Amber Consultation Service’; a systemic consultation service developed by the Psychology and Behaviour Support team in the Manchester Community Adult Learning Disability Service. We consider the feasibility and effectiveness of this service.
Developing a clinical psychology service for patients affected by Covid-19: Reflections from Leeds Department of Clinical and Health Psychology
Authors: Johnson Louise , Shand Sarah , Bowmer Grace , Derbyshire Catherine
Published: January 2023

The paper discusses a new clinical psychology service developed during the first Covid-19 pandemic to offer psychological assessment and intervention to patients diagnosed with Covid-19. Information about the type of referrals and interventions offered were collected. Reflections of the service were captured from a patient and therapist perspective.
Staff experiences of adapted work practices within RISE-CAMHS, during the Covid-19 pandemic – A mixed methods service evaluation
Authors: Szulewska Katarzyna , Baxter Nisheela
Published: January 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to changes in work practices for all mental health professionals. This study explored the experiences of staff working within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in Coventry and Warwickshire, during the outbreak.
Social engagement and experiential avoidance: Overcoming the burden of the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Jina-Pettersen Nourredine
Published: January 2023

Covid-19 related public health measures have justified increased experiential avoidance, providing short-lived decreases in distress during the pandemic. This article discusses how promoting social engagement allows for a smoother transition to the post-pandemic period where such avoidance behaviours are no longer warranted.
From curiosity to imperative need: Leading the digital transition of a trauma service in the context of Covid-19
Authors: O’Mahony Chris , Adhyaru Jai Shree , Arriazu Paula Aredez , Cooper Charlotte , Walsh Tara , Zeniou Elena
Published: January 2023

This paper focuses on the steps undertaken to improve digital literacy within a trauma service working with children and young people, providing a set of principles and factors that other NHS services may wish to consider in leading teams in digital transformation.
The impacts of a psychological skills course on quality of life outcomes in adults accessing a primary care NHS mental health service: A service evaluation
Authors: Coleman Joe , Tearle Shaw , Bate Nicola , Marczak Magda
Published: January 2023

A service evaluation investigating the efficacy of a new primary care treatment pathway, which incorporates a psychoeducational skills course prior to individual psychological intervention. Findings reflect increased quality of life scores following both the course and the full treatment pathway.
Integrating the individual and the collective for a transformational response to the climate emergency
Authors: Uzzell David
Published: January 2023

This paper argues that only by integrating the individual into the social and collective context in which people live may help us to move towards an essential transformational approach to bringing about change in society to address the climate emergency.
The ecological collapse and what we can do about it
Authors: Stirling Elspeth
Published: January 2023

Earth’s atmosphere and surface ecosystems are in a state of collapse. Changes are faster and larger than expected. Individual behaviour change is not enough. Policy will need to take account of psychological science to be effective.
The Children’s Fire – Thinking of the future
Authors: Mann Ella
Published: January 2023

An introduction to the concept of the Children’s Fire, written by a young person, and how it can encourage long-term thinking in decision-making, with examples of people using the idea around the world and how it can be relevant to your practice as psychologists.
A changing climate for trainee research
Authors: Walker Alice
Published: January 2023

A reflective account from a trainee clinical psychologist about the experience of undertaking research on clinical psychologists’ responses to the climate and ecological crises.
When your university doesn’t understand the assignment: Exposing a lack of transparency and accountability of diversity and inclusion data from Doctorate in Clinical Psychology courses
Authors: Atayero Sarah , Dodzro Ron
Published: January 2023

This report was originally published on the BiPP Network website (www.bippnetwork.org.uk) on 9 July 2021. This study reports the process of using the FOI Act to access diversity data on applicants to the DClinPsy programme for 2020 entry, the challenges faced and recommendations for courses given the context of increasing representation and anti-racist practice.
A readability analysis of the PHQ-9: How much of the general public may struggle to understand it?
Authors: Cuffe Ray
Published: January 2023

The PHQ-9 plays a key role in determining entry into IAPT, deciding treatment options and measuring service-wide targets. However, a significant minority may struggle to understand it, creating a worrying barrier to care and misleading data.
A Community Learning Disability Team (CLDT) and Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) service working together to adapt, deliver and evaluate the effectiveness of a ‘Coping with My Feelings’ psychoeducational group for adults with learning disabilities or difficulties
Authors: Busfield Andrew , Stephens Sara , Storm Lize-Marie
Published: January 2023

Adults with learning disabilities (LD) experience higher rates of mental health difficulties and additional barriers to health care services compared with the general population. To address this, a CLDT and IAPT service collaborated to embed reasonable adjustments at a service level and adapted a ‘Stress and Mood Management’ group, renamed Coping with my Feelings. In this article, we will refer to this group as ‘Coping with my Feelings’. Findings are presented to encourage future collaborations.
Empowering stroke survivors and their carers through a psychoeducation session before hospital discharge
Authors: Capel Matilda , Miller Peta , Hayter Aimee
Published: January 2023

A psycho-education intervention to empower stroke survivors and their carers to manage their long-term condition was carried out on a post-acute rehabilitation ward. After the 90-minute session, participants (particularly carers) indicated that they felt better prepared for discharge.
MyAbility: A clinical approach to develop positive self-identity
Authors: Pickering Andrea , Sephton Fran , Bowers Emma , Jones Niki
Published: January 2023

This article describes a practice-led service development project between Recolo UK and ATtherapy. The authors had identified a clinical need for resources to aid the exploration of identity following a brain injury and diagnosis of a neurodevelopmental disorder, including autism and cerebral palsy. The findings of a feasibility study of MyAbility and a discussion of the implications for clinical practice in neurorehabilitation are described. The authors have won UKABIF Mike Barnes Award for Innovation 2021 for their work on MyAbility.
Reflections on delivering group-based mindfulness sessions to young people within a Secure Children’s Home
Authors: Procter Charlotte , Milton Erica
Published: January 2023

Evidence-based mindfulness practices are increasingly popular, however there is limited research on the application of these practices with young people in secure settings. This article reflects on a mindfulness programme delivered at a Secure Children’s Home during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Deaf adults, assessing their cognitive ability and adaptive behaviours: A review
Authors: Kathryn Roscoe , Merdian Hannah , Baker Kevin , Gresswell David M. , Braham Louise , Berry Mike
Published: January 2023

Assessing deaf adults’ cognitive ability and adaptive behaviour is complex due to confounding factors such as language deprivation, the influence of deaf-cultural norms, and the need to adapt assessment measures, impacting on their validity and reliability. This systematic literature review investigated the types of assessments currently used for deaf people, their common adaptations, and the implications for clinical practice. There appears to be little academic agreement on these issues, and an associated lack of methodological rigour in the literature. The review highlighted a need to further develop valid, psychometrically sound assessment tools for this population, and provides suggested best-practice guidelines for the assessment of this population.
Ethics and the Duty of Candour
Authors: Kemp Ryan , Wainwright Tony
Published: January 2023

The Duty of Candour was introduced into law in 2014 and is a significant ethical responsibility for clinical psychologists. In this article we review the regulations and some of the complexities that underlie its implementation. We map onto the relevant research and Codes of Practice where details of how we should, as a profession, undertake this duty.
Power, Threat, Meaning Framework informed audit: The ubiquitous experience of trauma in adults with psychosis
Authors: Colbert Susannah , Caswell Harley , Dunstan Rose
Published: January 2023

In the context of the Power, Threat, Meaning Framework and trauma-informed care, this audit attempted to identify experiences of trauma and adversity for clients on the caseload of an NHS community psychosis team. Histories of trauma were found for every client. The number of trauma experiences ranged from 1–9, giving a mean of 2.7 per client. This confirms clients with psychosis as a highly traumatised group and supports the trauma model of psychosis.
‘Race’ and racism in intelligence testing
Authors: Hiermeier Ursula Maria , Verity Sarah Jane
Published: January 2023

There are well-documented difficulties with inequity in neuropsychological assessment. The article discusses the misuse of ‘race’ in intelligence testing and highlights shortcomings in test norms, standardisation samples, within- and between-group differences. We share our standpoint epistemology in writing this paper, and share our current understanding as a call for personal, professional, and collective change.
A public health crisis is a disability rights crisis: Health inequality and ableism in the pandemic
Authors: Dawood Runa , Sunderalingam Daisy , Ranieri Veronica
Published: January 2023

Whether we identify as disabled or not, the pandemic has brought issues relevant to disability rights to the forefront of our minds. It is timelier than ever to develop an understanding of disability rights concerning the pandemic. This opinion piece describes disability challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic. Person first language is not adhered to here, in line with conversations in the disability rights movement (Botha et al., 2021). It is important to note that in conveying disability experiences during this period, it is understood that no two experiences are the same. Similarly, disability is a broad term, and the pandemic may have produced differing needs across areas of disability, such as physical and mental health and intellectual disability. Our hope is in beginning a conversation around the intersections and nuances of these issues.
Ableism 101
Authors: Wood Nick
Published: January 2023

Clear Summary

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We give a Background to the Topic

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We discuss what is ‘Ableism’?

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We give some examples.

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We talk about what we might do, to change Ableism.
‘People don’t fit boxes’: The responses of people with disabilities to the disability benefits system
Authors: Saffer Jessica , O’Riordan Emer
Published: January 2023

Easy read summary

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People with disabilities face more money problems than people without disabilities. These problems have got worse over time.

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This paper talks about two pieces of research.

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This research found that people with disabilities have problems with the benefits system.

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The authors give ideas for how psychologists can help people with disabilities.
Evaluation of service providers’ experiences and views on the mental health and wellbeing services for Syrian refugees in Warwickshire
Authors: Gellini Hannah , Marczak Magda
Published: January 2023

Refugees have specific mental health and wellbeing needs as a result of multiple traumas experienced in their countries of origin, during their journey to the UK and the ongoing stressors following resettlement (Liebling et al., 2014). The main objective of this project was to explore service providers’ (SPs) experiences and views on the current mental health and wellbeing services provided for Syrian refugees in Warwickshire. Twenty-one SPs participated in a structured interview or questionnaire. SPs’ data was collated per area of interest and then coded. The areas of interest included nature of SPs’ work, source of funding, mental health needs of the Syrian refugee population and any additional mental health needs as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, how SPs are addressing the mental health needs, gaps in mental health provision and suggestions for addressing the gaps. The findings identify a range of mental health needs and specific challenges and gaps in current service provision. Recommendations for improvements, in addition to clinical implications are included in this report.
Unlocking the System: Place-based ways of working with children, their families and a neighbourhood psychologist in Bettws, Wales
Authors: Daffin Jen , Thomas Rebecca , Parry Siobhan
Published: January 2023

In Public Health, recognition of the importance of the social determinants of health has led to significant shifts in practice and research. In the mental health sector, we are making great progress but ‘treating’ the social determinants of mental health requires a focus more on policy than on medication, therapy, and neurobiological innovation. It is now widely acknowledged that our mental health is largely determined by the conditions in which we are born, grow, work, live, and age. Conditions full of adversity and deprivation create a lack of opportunity, poor infrastructure and socially disconnected communities. These circumstances foster the conditions for community level adversity, trauma, and injustice. Solving the mental health crisis is therefore not about more access to one-to-one therapy, counselling, but about creating psychosocially health circumstances and communities for people to live in. For emotional health outcomes, we know the first 1,000 days but particularly the first two months are most crucial. It’s therefore important that support is provided early and sustained over this critical period. Working with parents with a child aged seven or younger alongside local primary schools using the human learning systems approach this project aims to explore how to communities can heal from trauma and adversity in ways that are human-rights focused, non-violent, trauma-informed, community-led, healing and culturally sensitive. Based on the adverse community experiences and resilience framework whilst using storytelling for systems change the project will look to co-develop a place-based approach to understanding and improving community wellbeing and resilience in Bettws, Newport.
Adapting behavioural observations for neurodevelopmental assessment: Development and evaluation of online play-based assessments in community CYPS during Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Summers Molly , Herrema Renske , Dennison Elinor
Published: January 2023

Evaluations of online play-based assessments were completed in a Community CYPS team for virtual appointments during Covid-19 restrictions. These evaluations were completed by clinicians and families to assess utility, practicality and challenges when completing assessments online to contribute to holistic neurodevelopmental assessment.
Spinal injuries and older adults
Authors: Wilcox Julie
Published: January 2023

‘Ageing is synonymous with living; it is a process that begins at birth and evolves across the lifespan. Actually, ageing is the process of adjusting to a constantly changing internal and external environment, and, as a result, there is no definable beginning point for being ‘aged’. Rather, this concept creeps into our awareness after we make a series of adjustments to accommodate the realisation that we cannot do as many of the things we did when we were younger. Usually the change is subtle, evolving over many years so that our ‘normal ageing’ results in the gradual reduction in scope and intensity of our activities. Sometimes the change is sudden, however, if we experience a major disability. Thus, many older people find that the miracles of modern medicine provide them with the opportunity to live but with a sudden alteration of many dimensions of their lives.’(Trieschmann, 1987)
The utility of the Revised Cognitive Therapy Scale (CTS-R) for assessing therapeutic competence when working with older people with depression and anxiety
Authors: James Ian , Reichelt F. Katharina
Published: January 2023

The Revised Cognitive Therapy Scale (CTS-R) is a new scale for measuring therapist competence in Cognitive Therapy and is based on the original Cognitive Therapy Scales (CTS, Young & Beck, 1980, 1988). The CTS-R was developed jointly by clinicians and researchers at the Newcastle Cognitive and Behavioural Therapies Centre and the University of Newcastle-upon- Tyne (Blackburn, Milne & James, 1997). Early versions of the scale have been used in empirical studies to examine the development of therapeutic skills in therapists treating clients in adult outpatient settings (James, Blackburn, Milne & Reichelt, 2001). The present paper discusses aspects of therapy that require either emphasising, or adapting, when working with older people. Having reviewed these requirements, and then provided an overview of the scale, the paper concludes that the CTS-R needs little adaptation when used to assess the competence of therapy delivered to older people with affective disorders.
A cognitive-behavioural group approach for the management of late-life insomnia: A pilot study
Authors: Ruiz Christina
Published: January 2023

Older adults with chronic insomnia were treated in a small group setting. The treatment consisted of nine therapy sessions (including one-month follow-up session) which involved sleep education (SE), sleep hygiene (SH), stimulus control (SC) procedures, progressive muscular relaxation and cognitive therapy (CT). Sleep diaries and self-rating questionnaires showed an improvement in the amount of sleep, sleep onset and sleep hygiene. The group gained an understanding of normal sleep patterns in old age and showed a decrease of worrying cognitions regarding their inability to manage their sleep. They benefited from being in a group situation and expressed satisfaction about their current sleep pattern. Changes were maintained at one-month follow-up.

These findings, taken in conjunction with previous reports, suggest that late-life insomnia can be effectively treated with a combined approach which includes a cognitive-behavioural group approach. However, considering the need to consolidate the skills for future relapses, it is suggested that further sessions should be provided, in particular when applying cognitive techniques. Additional research with larger samples is warranted.
An audit of clinical psychology referrals and provision for older adults in the Scottish borders
Authors: Harte Cyan
Published: January 2023

Patients over the age of 64 and those under 65 referred to a Psychology Department in the Scottish Borders were compared in terms of referral rates, differences in attendance behaviour and service received. Routinely collected departmental data and NHS demographic data were utilised. Results showed that older adults were proportionally less likely to be referred to psychological services than those under 65. The older group also generally had less time to wait for an initial appointment, and were more reliable attendees. However, they were more likely to decline contact before their initial appointment. Implications of these findings are discussed in the light of recent recommendations by the Scottish Executive concerning services for older people in the NHS.
Brief Strategic Therapy for older adults with anxiety
Authors: Church Michael , Watts Sarah
Published: January 2023

The need for alternative psychological therapies in the treatment of older adults with anxiety disorders is suggested by the significant proportion of non-responders to Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, and the lack of other therapeutic options. A new formulation of Brief Strategic Therapy incorporating advances in the psychobiology of anxiety provides one such promising treatment option. The applicability of Brief Strategic Therapy to older people and adaptations necessary are discussed and illustrated.
Absence, loss and misappropriation
Authors: Petford Bobbie
Published: January 2023

Bereavement and loss have a significant impact on health of older people, and are often part of the emotional distress that brings them to seek help from a therapist. This personal reflection, from an integrative perspective, considers three themes of absence, loss and misappropriation in relation to theories of bereavement and grief, and the practice of therapy with older people.
Guest Editorial
Authors: Allen Chris
Published: January 2023

‘Sometimes you feel so happy you want to leap over the counter.‘
Investigating the ways that older people cope with dementia: The role of identity
Authors: Preston Laura , Bucks Romola S. , Marshall Ann
Published: January 2023

This article reports results from a larger qualitative study (currently in preparation for journal submission) that more broadly explored how older people cope with dementia. Twelve people with early-stage dementia were engaged in semi-structured interviews and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to identify the shared themes in participants’ accounts. ‘Managing identity in relation to dementia’ was one of three major themes spontaneously to emerge from the study (alongside ‘Making sense of dementia’ and ‘Coping strategies and mechanisms’). Findings relating to this theme are presented here, and discussed in relation to previous research in this field, and implications for further research and clinical practice.
Supervising therapy with older clients
Authors: Petford Bobbie
Published: January 2023

Therapy with older people does not have much of a presence in psychotherapeutic literature, and the supervision of therapists working with older clients is even more neglected. This brief reflective article explores some of the issues raised in recent writing and the author’s practice as a counsellor and supervisor.
A walk-in psychology service for elderly Cypriot day centre users
Authors: Zioga Maria , Gander Simon , Lychrou Evanthia , Mouratoglou Vassilis M.
Published: January 2023

The aim of the project was to screen and offer psychological support to Cypriot elders attending a community day centre. Twelve individuals were interviewed for the pilot part. Two other elders received individual assessment and completed CBT therapy, and three others received group therapy. It was found that there are some statistically significant differences indicating that this particular ethnic group of elders faces up significant mental health issues, which were undetected and untreated.
Cure or contain? Attachment theory as a baseline model to understand resistance to success –orWhy people don’t want to get better
Authors: Shirley Louisa J.
Published: January 2023

Attachment theory is a useful model within which to begin to understand some clients’ reluctance to be discharged from mental health services. Bowlby suggests that certain behaviours, such as proximity seeking, or clinginess, designed to elicit/maintain the involvement of an attachment figure are likely to appear at times when a person feels under threat and/or perceives the absence of an attachment figure. In older adulthood, people often experience both the loss of attachment figures, and the perception of threat (to their physical self or to their identities), and we could expect to see the emergence of attachment-seeking behaviour during these crises. For a small number of older people, their early experiences might prompt more extreme or desperate attachment-eliciting behaviour. This article discusses the possibility that people with early attachment difficulties, who become part of mental health services, may form relationships with staff or with the unit that resemble attachment relationships and which prompt attachment-seeking behaviour when the relationship is threatened by discharge from the service. It is suggested that we need to know more about the willingness or reluctance of staff to form meaningful relationships with older people in mental health services, and how such relationships can be supported.
Developing CBT services for family carers of people with dementia: Five years on
Authors: Fossey Jane , Barlow Harriet , Robinson Amanda , Fowler Jo-ann
Published: January 2023

This article outlines how services in Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire have been developing the way in which CBT treatment for family carers of people with dementia is offered. It reflects on some of the learning from our service developments in CBT group work and outlines a current randomised control trial ‘Caring for Me and You’ hosted within the service and funded by the Alzheimer’s Society, which is evaluating the effectiveness of a newly-developed computerised CBT package for family carers with anxiety and depression.
Upon learning from the community: Surveying dementia awareness in South East Asian communities
Authors: Scott Ian , Barrow Faye , Sharma Serena
Published: January 2023

The Department of Health has highlighted the need to increase early diagnosis of dementia, increase the uptake of intervention following diagnosis, and reduce stigma of this debilitating condition (Department of Health, 2009). Further, previous authors have highlighted the need to deliver culturally tailored services (Giebel et al., 2014; Seabrooke & Milne, 2004). An opportunity arose to learn about the perspectives of dementia from a cross-section of the local Punjabi community who were attending a Dementia Information Group. Over a five-week programme, the authors conducted a short dementia survey to members of the local Punjabi community. Results indicate that respondents held some positive constructions of dementia and services, although some perspectives reflecting stigma and concerns about help-seeking were evident. Limitations of this study and recommendations for future research are briefly discussed.
The Oxfordshire Integrated Care Home Support Service: New developments to address the health and wellbeing of people with dementia in care homes
Authors: Stone Candy , Fossey Jane , Broad Antoinette
Published: January 2023

This article describes how a fully integrated multi-disciplinary physical and mental healthcare team has been developed, by reshaping existing services, to meet mental healthcare needs and treat behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and physical healthcare problems in Oxfordshire’s care homes through an integrated Care Home Support Service (ICHSS).
One year on: Reflections on integrating psychological thinking into a physical care home support service
Authors: Runchman Carla
Published: January 2023

The Oxford Integrated Care Home Support Service (CHSS; see Candy Stone’s article in this issue) has integrated specialist mental health staff into its physical health service to provide psychosocial interventions for behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) using a stepped care approach. The team includes mental health nurses, occupational therapists, a clinical psychologist and a consultant psychiatrist, and the interventions for challenging behaviour are supervised by the psychologist. Here are a few reflections on being that psychologist, and on leading introduction of psychological formulation and ideas for non-pharmacological intervention in a well established physical health service.
Containment and its role in maintaining the self in dementia
Authors: Wilson Christopher , Danby Harriet
Published: January 2023

This paper aims to illustrate a tangible theoretical frame for understanding and supporting the endurance of self within dementia. First, we outline the role of containment in the development and maintenance of the self, before considering how a dementia can represent a threat to a premorbid sense of self. We will reflect on common barriers to containment and selfness dialogically constructed by services, including the potentially damaging use of expert language and neuropsychiatric shorthand. A practical application of psychodynamic concepts in terms of scaffolding a sense of self for clients with dementia within NHS dementia services is then explored.
The impact of dementia illness representations on accessing health care
Authors: Sheppard Louise
Published: January 2023

Help-seeking for dementia concerns has been associated with beliefs about memory (Hurt et al., 2012). Older adults were interviewed to elicit their illness representation (beliefs) of dementia to investigate the impact on help-seeking. Two themes were identified when using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis: 1) ‘We all forget don’t we. But there’s a difference;’ 2) ‘I think everybody these days gets quite scared.’ Participants suggested that an observer identifies symptoms in another, prompting help-seeking. Denial may be used to cope with fear of symptoms, hindering attempts to seek help.
Brigid and I – Part III
Authors: Freitas C. , Slade Lewis
Published: January 2023

The following piece was written from a recording of a conversation between a person living with dementia, C. Freitas (pseudonym), who here is the voice of both Brigid and ‘I’, and an assistant psychologist. The recording was transcribed and subsequently edited jointly. C. Freitas has also written two other pieces entitled ‘My friend Brigid and I’, one of which was published in a previous edition of FPOP Newsletter (now Bulletin; Saints, 2015). She is a member of the Forget Me Nots, a group co-run by people living with dementia and psychology staff from Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust. The group aims to promote engagement and wellbeing, to encourage communities to be more dementia-friendly, affect national and local policy, and to challenge the stigma surrounding dementia.

The piece was written as a way to engage the media and the general public in discussion around stigma, and the role of the media in maintaining or reducing it.
Psychological interventions for depression in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Barcroft Rachel , Simpson Jane
Published: January 2023

A systematic review was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of published trials that used psychological interventions to decrease depression in people with multiple sclerosis.
A review of a pilot project providing a memory screening service to GP practices in Milton Keynes
Authors: Tonkin-Gage Emily , Standell Emily
Published: January 2023

Purpose:To describe findings from a primary care memory screening pilot project in Milton Keynes.

Background:The Milton Keynes Specialist Memory Service provided a pilot memory screening service to nine GP practices, for individuals identified as ‘at risk’ of dementia. The Paired Associate Learning task on the CANTAB mobile was used. Participants who showed memory difficulties were referred for a full assessment at SMS, resulting in various outcomes, including possible diagnoses of dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods:Data were collated in relation to participant numbers, outcomes and demographics. Questionnaire and focus group data were also collected, to gather patient experience information. Thematic analysis was used to analyse focus group data.

Conclusions:871 participants attended and completed memory screening appointments. 254 participants were offered further assessments, and 144 people attended and completed further assessments. 61.8 per cent of these individuals either received a diagnosis (of dementia or MCI), or continued to have involvement with the service for further investigations or monitoring. Questionnaire and focus group responses and themes were generally positive. Main themes related to early identification/support and increased awareness/education. Negative responses and themes related predominantly to anxiety. Overall, the screening project was acceptable to a large number of people. It identified a number of individuals who were found to have diagnoses of dementia or MCI, however there were also false positives. Questionnaires and focus groups indicated generally positive views and experiences. The pilot has resulted in discussions regarding a permanent memory screening service.
Gweld y Gair: Standardisation and clinical application of a Welsh language measure for estimation of premorbid intellectual functioning
Authors: Clare Linda , Toms Gill , Thomas Enlli , Hindle John V. , Woods Robert T.
Published: January 2023

Neuropsychological assessments, especially for suspected dementia, often emphasise the comparison of current and premorbid intellectual functioning. However, when assessing bilinguals, estimation of premorbid intellectual functioning may vary depending on which language provides the medium of testing. For bilingual Welsh-English speakers, testing in English only may yield an inaccurate profile of premorbid ability and hence affect the accuracy of subsequent diagnosis. We report the development and standardisation of a Welsh-language lexical decision task, Prawf Gweld y Gair, and evaluation of its suitability for assessing premorbid intellectual functioning in clinical groups. Standardisation with 101 healthy over 50s showed that scores correlated significantly with scores on other measures of crystallised intelligence and, when age and gender were taken into account, significantly predicted scores on a measure of non-verbal fluid intelligence. In subsequent evaluation with healthy older controls (N=25), people who have Alzheimer’s, vascular or mixed dementia (N=26) and Parkinson’s disease (N=25), as predicted, there were no significant correlations with age, fluid intelligence or cognitive status in the clinical groups. Gweld y Gair shows promise as a Welsh-language test of premorbid intellectual functioning and may be useful for clinicians assessing the cognitive abilities of older Welsh speakers.

Mae asesiadau niwroseicolegol, yn arbennig pan yn amau dementia, yn aml yn rhoi pwyslais ar gymhariaeth o weithrediad deallusol cyfredol a chyn-forbid. Fodd bynnag, wrth asesu pobl ddwyieithog, gall amcangyfrif o weithrediad deallusol cyn-forbid amrywio yn dibynnu ar gyfrwng iaith y profion. Ar gyfer siaradwyr dwyieithog Cymraeg-Saesneg, gall profi yn Saesneg yn unig gynhyrchu proffil anghywir o allu cyn-forbid a thrwy hynny gall effeithio ar gywirdeb unrhyw ddiagnosis dilynol. Adroddwn yma ar ddatblygiad proses safoni tasg dewis geiriau Cymraeg, Prawf Gweld y Gair, a’n gwerthusiad o’fi addasrwydd ar gyfer asesu gweithrediad deallusol cyn-forbid mewn grwpiau clinigol. Drwy safoni gyda 101 oedolyn iach dros 50 oed, dangosodd ein canlyniadau bod sgorau ar y prawf yn cydberthynnu’n arwyddocaol gyda sgorau ar fesurau eraill o wybodaeth cyn-forbid, a phan ystyriwyd oed a rhyw, roedd yn ragweld sgorau ar fesur o lifedd gwybodaeth di-eiriol. Mewn gwerthusiad dilynol gyda grŵp rheolaeth o bobl hŷn oedd yn iach (N=25), pobl sydd a chlefyd Alzheimer, demensia fasgwlaidd neu gymysg (N=26) a chlefyd Parkinson (N=25), fel y rhagwelwyd, nid oedd unrhyw cydberthyniad arwyddocaol gydag oed, llifedd deallusrwydd na statws gwybyddol yn y grwpiau clinigol. Mae Gweld y Gair yn dangos addewid fel prawf Cymraeg o weithrediadau deallusol cyn-forbid a gall fod yn ddefnyddiol i glinigwyr asesu galluoedd gwybyddol siaradwyr Cymraeg hŷn.
The relevance of positive behaviour support to dementia care: Learning and sharing experiences of delivering care
Authors: James Ian A. , Reichelt F. Katharina
Published: January 2023

This article provides a brief review of Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) and examines its potential utility in the treatment of Behaviours that Challenge (BtC) in dementia care. The review suggests that, while adaptations to the PBS framework would be required if wanting to use it in dementia care, it is a useful additional approach. Moreover, we believe our current BtC interventions could be enhanced through improvements in two key features that are critical to the use of PBS, (i) using behavioural data to truly inform one’s formulations, and (ii) analysing more fully the retained skills and learning capabilities of clients. Of note, neither of these aspects are innovative or unfamiliar to our current practices, however, we would argue that they are not generally carried out with sufficient rigour in our current formulation-led approaches. Hence, our conclusion is that we should embrace some of the helpful aspects of the PBS framework, working closer with colleagues in other specialities (Learning Disability, Child, Forensic) to improve our shared approaches to BtC. Furthermore owing to the similarities between our models, which PBS highlights, we should work towards developing joint training and research initiatives.
Developing a psychology led multi-agency approach to hoarding disorder in older adults
Authors: Caiazza Roberta , Soares Luies , Ruth Clark Katharine , Soady Karen , Keedy Linda
Published: January 2023

In the past, there was a general belief that hoarding objects was a non-pathological life choice, however over recent years, the literature has highlighted that hoarding is a frequent mental health issue which affects two to six per cent of the population (Iervolino et al., 2009). In May 2013, Hoarding Disorder was included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders (DSM-5, APA 2013) which has helped to raise awareness of hoarding behaviours and their impact on the individual, their family and society.

Anecdotally it appears to be exceedingly difficult for a single service to maintain the wellbeing of an individual who presents with Hoarding Disorder, as it is often necessary for their property to undergo extensive clearing and cleaning. Managing this efficiently and in a timely manner, whilst inflicting minimal emotional distress to the affected individual can be very challenging and costly (Neave et al., 2017).

These issues appear to be associated with the absence of an established, psychology led multi-agency service that would offer an appropriate and effective pathway when working with a Hoarding Disorder presentation. Hence, in this paper, we suggest that a hoarding presentation requires input from multiple sources, including emergency services, social services and mental health services. We aim to reflect upon working practices of professionals in the relevant services who have experience of working with people who present with Hoarding Disorder. This paper will also outline a professional multi–agency model of work which may be used to support critical discussions with key stakeholders to support future service developments.
Caring for yourself whilst caring for a person with dementia
Authors: Michelle Hamill , Martina McCarthy
Published: January 2023

Newham’s Mental Health Care of Older People’s (MHCOP) service, within East London Foundation Trust (ELFT) has been facilitating psychotherapeutic groups for relatives of people with dementia for10 years. The groups are based on an integrated, multimodal approach including psychoeducation regarding dementia. In this time approximately 120 carers have attended, reporting a variety of benefits including notably better understanding of dementia, improved coping strategies, enhanced ability to tolerate difficult feelings with compassion and acceptance, improved awareness and commitment to self-care, and reduced isolation. In keeping with the importance of co-production, a former group graduate is now involved in the co-facilitation and delivery of the group.
Introducing Strategies for Relatives (START) coping intervention for family carers of people with dementia within Barnet Memory Service
Authors: Franklin Claire , Lukeman Ruth
Published: January 2023

This article aims to share our experiences of offering START within Barnet Memory Service (BMS) which is hoped might be helpful for other services considering a similar process.
What is different about working with trauma in later life?
Authors: Sturgeon-Clegg Imogen
Published: January 2023

This paper stems from a presentation made at the FPOP Preston event in April 2018 entitled ‘Our Emerging Stories of working with trauma using the PTM framework’ (Johnstone & Boyle, 2018). The presentation concentrated on the importance of understanding the historical, social, political and cultural context of traumatic experiences, focusing particularly on differences when working therapeutically with older people when compared with younger people. This paper employs an amalgamated case study from patients who had experienced traumatic events. All identifying details have been omitted.