New support service to provide best possible care for patients in Kirklees | News

In a significant stride towards addressing unmet needs in the local community, this month sees the rollout of the Substance Care Team at Dewsbury Hospital, in a collaborative effort between Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust and Kirklees Council.

Established as a response to the unmet need for enhanced support for drug and alcohol related health issues in the area, the rollout follows the remarkable success of the team's transformative work at Pinderfields Hospital, made possible through a strategic partnership and national Government funding to enhance the delivery of treatment and recovery systems.

The collaboration will see a seven-day clinic at Dewsbury Hospital, meaning patients can access one-to-one support in both Wakefield and Kirklees. The service aims to ensure that individuals identified with drug or alcohol issues, particularly in hospital settings such as A&E, receive immediate support, such access to services, in-hospital assistance, and community-based support, including referrals to Change Grow Live (CGL - Kirklees) and Turning Point (Wakefield).

Lucy Beeley, Director of Operations for the Acute Care Division at Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, said: “Our collaboration with Kirklees Council marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to address the complex challenges associated with substance use.

“The team will be vital in improving outcomes and helping us foster a healthier community, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on our patients."

Rebecca Gunn, Public Health Manager at Kirklees Council said: “I am really proud of this new initiative and the additional support that it will provide to those Kirklees residents who require drug and alcohol support.   

"We know that many people who struggle with substance misuse are not receiving treatment and this new Substance Care Team will enable more people impacted by substance misuse to access the support services they need.”