Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Integrated Care System (ICS) has launched an initiative to support people with severe mental illnesses.
The ICS has launched a campaign to urge people with severe mental illnesses to take a free physical health check, as part of a drive to reduce health inequalities.
It’s hoped the free annual health checks can detect any potential concerns and discuss ways to improve overall physical wellbeing for 3,700 local people who have been diagnosed with a severe mental illness.
The ICS notes that, “evidence shows that life expectancy is 20 years lower for people with an SMI than the average population as they have an increased risk of some physical health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity and stroke.”
Carly Pedley, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Non-Medical Prescriber said: “The work we are doing to support people with an SMI is absolutely vital, as we are tackling a huge health inequality gap.
“These physical health checks are important. Everyone’s situation is different, but we know that good mental and physical health go hand in hand – and people should not suffer poor physical health because they have a mental health diagnosis.
“We urge everyone living in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and who has a diagnosed SMI to take up this annual check.”
