Helen G. Email & Phone Number

I am a passionate advocate for long-term conditions, with a particular focus on musculoskeletal, autoimmune and mental health. Over the years, my work has supported the health and well-being of teenagers and adults, raising awareness of the various types of long-term conditions and their impact on day-to-day individual and family life.As a HealthMakers Guru, I have been integral to the development of the HealthMakers programme. This includes designing a comprehensive health and well-being self-management course, delivered over six weeks in a supportive, group-based format. Additionally, we have developed an introduction to self-management for the Silver Cloud platform. A key element of our approach is the incorporation of peer support, which threads through all aspects of the programme. By fostering a community of individuals who share similar experiences, we create an environment where participants can learn from and support each other, enhancing their journey towards better health and wellbeing.Drawing from my personal experience with Still’s Disease and depression, and as a user of the NHS, I bring a unique blend of knowledge and objectivity to my work. My lived experience allows me to empathise deeply with others facing similar challenges and to advocate effectively for better awareness and support. My advocacy work has also included NHS England’s Clinical Reference Group (CRG) to shape healthcare policies and improve services, and NICE on technology appraisals for Tocilizumab (IL6 inhibitor) in the treatment of arthritis in children. In addition to my advocacy work, my experience as a Personal Assistant (PA) has honed my skills in organisation and communication. These skills are invaluable in my current roles, enabling me to provide comprehensive support and guidance to those I work with.Currently, I am a mature student studying for a joint honours degree in Psychology and Sociology. Historically, education systems did not encourage university education for individuals with disabilities, often creating barriers to higher education. Taking the step to study as a mature student is a significant milestone for me, and I hope it can serve as an encouragement to others facing similar challenges. This interdisciplinary approach allows me to gain a comprehensive understanding of human behaviour, social structures, and their impact on health and well-being. The knowledge and insights gained from my studies further enhance my ability to contribute meaningfully to the field of health and wellbeing.

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  Healthmakers Guru

  Berkshire Healthcare Nhs Foundation Trust

  Apr 2016 - Present - Bracknell, England, United Kingdom