COVID-19 UPDATE - Veterans First Point Lothian

 IMPORTANT NOTICE

Dear Veteran

Please read carefully.  Please also be aware that this information may change in days to come, please check our website for up-to-date information.  

I am sure you are aware that the First Minister has announced increased measures in light of the COVID-19 infection and we at Veterans First Point are continuing to take government advice. Therefore with effect from TUESDAY 17TH MARCH 2020 we are making the following changes: 

Drop-in

Unfortunately our drop-in service will be suspended until further notice. If you need assistance please telephone during drop-in times  (tues-thurs 1-3.30pm) and someone will be able to talk to you on 0131 220 9920.  

Scheduled Appointments

All scheduled appointments will continue at their usual time over the telephone. The staff member will call you at your allocated time. Please make sure your phone is switched on and you are available in a quiet space. I’m sure you’ll understand that staff may not be able to make multiple attempts at calling. In the medium term we are establishing a secure platform for video therapy through the PC and your therapist or support worker will offer this facility as soon as it becomes available. You have the option to delay therapeutic contact in preference to face to face but we would have to warn all our veterans that this may potentially involve a significant wait.

We appreciate that telephone therapy will not suit everyone. So we would like to also make you aware of a range of online resources:

Beating the Blues – This is online CBT for anxiety and depression. It involves eight sessions of approximately 50 minutes in duration. Please speak to a member of the Veterans First Point team if you wish to be referred. More information about this resource can be found at www.beatingtheblues.co.uk

Silver Cloud – This is an online course to help you manage stress, anxiety and depression. You work through a series of topics selected by a therapist to address specific needs. The eight-week course is designed to be completed in your own time and at your own pace. Please speak to a member of the Veterans First Point team if you wish to be referred. More information about the resource can be found at www.nhs.uk/apps-library/silvercloud/

PTSDcoach – This is an app that can be downloaded onto your smart phone to help manage your PTSD symptoms during this period. Please find it at the App store.

We will do everything to keep you as up to date as possible with unfolding events. We understand concerns around the coronavirus and the difficulties that self isolation may have for people, particularly those that are trying to improve or maintain their physical and mental health. Therefore during this period please be assured that the team are available to answer questions, talk through how you are feeling and answer any welfare queries by phone. You can contact us by emailing enquiries@veteransfirstpoint.org.uk or calling 0131 220 9920 during office hours Mon-Friday 9-5 to arrange a suitable time.  You may also find this resource useful if you are concerned about yourself or a loved one https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/looking-after-your-mental-health-during-coronavirus-outbreak.

Other useful numbers for out of hours support over this period are:

Mental Health Assessment Service (MHAS): 0131 537 6000             

Breathing Space: 0800 83 85 87               

Samaritans: 116 123

We do appreciate that some of these measures may seem very restrictive, but they are essential to ensure that we protect our staff and Veterans attending the service

Thank you for your patience and understanding, 

Dr Lucy Abraham

Consultant Clinical Psychologist

Veterans First Point Lothian Clinical Lead