Posted on: 30 September 2025
Earlier this month, Philippa Wright, London’s Chief Allied Health Professional (AHP) for NHS England, visited our mental health services in Harrow to meet AHPs, psychology colleagues and service managers from inpatient services, older adult and community teams.
The visit, coordinated by CNWL’s Liliana Mandal, Lead Occupational Therapist in the borough, highlighted the vital role of occupational therapy and other AHP professions in supporting recovery and promoting independence. Examples of AHP-led initiatives were showcased, including therapeutic group programmes on inpatient wards, sensory modulation approaches for managing distress, and vocational rehabilitation projects.
Staff from across Harrow joined sessions at Northwick Park and Bentley House, sharing case studies and service developments that demonstrated the breadth, creativity, and impact of AHP practice.
Philippa praised the innovative use of interventions in both inpatient and community settings, noting how they contribute directly to reducing admissions, enhancing wellbeing, and supporting personalised care pathways.
“Data from Northwick Park mental health services shows that a trauma-informed approach is helping people remain safely in the community, while reducing pressure on A&E and acute wards," Philippa said.
"This impact came to life during an afternoon spent with staff and service users at a community arts event, where it was both humbling and inspiring to hear what a difference these services have made to people’s lives".
Local leaders described the visit as a “real honour,” recognising it as both a celebration of collaborative practice and a valuable opportunity to showcase frontline expertise to regional leadership.
Following the visit, Philippa reflected:
“Thank you for an inspiring day, it really did send me off full of enthusiasm, and I'll certainly be referring to the excellent work I observed at regional and national meetings.”
