(April, 2005)
In February 2003, the Trust received a proposal from the Berkshire Healthcare Trust, Reading and Newbury Community Primary Care Trusts, The Young Offenders Institution Reading and the University of Reading seeking funding of Beating the Blues in the YOI, Reading for a period of 3 years. The proposal covered the design, delivery and evaluation of computer-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CCBT), when used with a specific population known to be at risk of mental health problems. In March 2003, the Trustees agreed to fund this project to the extent of £18,000 over 3 years with £5,000 of this commitment being donated by The Wates Foundation.
The system went ‘live’ in September 2003. Regrettably the project has not prospered - in part due to operational difficulties in the Institution which have only recently been resolved. In particular, escorting patients from their cells to the Health Centre and back again proved an early obstacle. In addition, some of the content of Beating the Blues caused patients difficulties in that the cameos used in the programme were not directly relevant to the young offenders.
At the time of writing this report it seems likely that we may have to abandon this project for other reasons outside of our control.
(June, 2005)
As forecast and in agreement with the Young Offenders Institution, Beating the Blues has been redeployed to Prospect Park Hospital, Reading where it will be used to support in patients and day patients at least until August 2006 when CWMT funding ceases.
(January, 2006)
As at 9th November 2005 a total of 33 in- and out-patients had accessed Beating the Blues. The associated research programme, which is not sponsored by CWMT, is expected to obtain ethical approval soon after some earlier difficulties.
(June, 2006)
The total numberof users has now increased to 62. The research programme has received ethical approval from the Mid and South Buckinghamshire Research Ethics Committee and discussions with Ultrasis plc about an extension of the licence continue.
Final report as at November 2006 (pdf format)
(February, 2007)
The total number of users is now 109. This study which primarily involves out-patients within Secondary Care is progressing satisfactorily. Note that direct support from CWMT has ceased.
