A SERVICE helping children with mental health problems in Oxfordshire has been shortlisted for a national award.

The project, Oxfordshire Primary Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, looks after hundreds of youngsters to "nip in the bud" emotional troubles linked to bullying, low self-esteem and family breakdown.

Launched jointly by Oxfordshire Primary Care Trust, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Mental Healthcare and Oxfordshire County Council in 2006, it is in the running for the Health Service Journal 2007 Mental Health Innovation Award.

Unlike anywhere else in the UK, Oxfordshire children with problems are referred to a single point of access so they can receive relevant help from all three organisations.

PCAMHS service manager Paul Sheffield said: "This is a really exciting.

"Not only were we shortlisted for this award from over 90 entries, but we're the only children's service to be selected in any category.

"It represents a real achievement for the hard work put in by each and every colleague who works in the team."

Penny Astrop, PCT director of community health services, added: "We're delighted the excellent partnership working in Oxfordshire and the staff commitment to developing and implementing PCAMHS has been recognised by this nomination."

Another OBMH service has also been highlighted for the HSJ award. The Bridge Building Team was set up to link patients with mainstream settings, to reduce the exclusion felt by many people suffering from mental health problems.

Occupational therapist Pat Corbett, a Bridge Building Team staff member, said: "It's a credit to the service users, who have helped in the design of this project, and to the staff, who have provided a mental health service suitable to modern expectations and standards."

  • WHEN George Atkins, pictured with his mum, started having panic attacks at the age of six he was immediately referred to PCAMHS.

His mother, Ruth Atkins, 41, of Marcham, near Abingdon, who also has a daughter Lucy, six, said: "It started on Boxing Day while we were all sat round having a big family meal.

"I could see him getting really upset and he started shaking and I had to move him away from everyone."

Ms Atkins and her ex-husband, George's father, Gavin Sharrock, had a meeting with a worker from PCAMHS, who set the ball in motion to help.

She said: "It was the best thing we could've done. George is now eight and has learned how to cope when he feels anxious."