Aspects of learning in a mental health setting
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.5042/mhsi.2010.0241 |
| Date | 13 May 2010 |
| Published date | 13 May 2010 |
| Pages | 35-42 |
| Author | Sue Atkinson,Vicky Reynolds |
| Subject Matter | Health & social care |
Mental Health and Social Inclusion • Volume 14 Issue 2 • May 2010 © Pier Professional Ltd 35
10.5042/mhsi.2010.0241
learning and skills and employment that
arise from, impact on or relate directly to
their mental health and well-being … the
“difficulty” therefore relates to a person’s
prospect of participating and succeeding in
learning and skills rather than relating to their
mental health condition.’ (Learning and Skills
Council, 2009)
Education is a right recognised in Protocol 1, Article
2 of the Human Rights Act 1998 (HM Government,
1998). It is desirable by many individuals diagnosed
with mental illness who have made it clear that they
want more education (Wertheimer, 1997), and by
government departments for its personal, social and
employment-related benefits.
Barriers to learning
There is no typical learner who experiences mental
health difficulties and no one type of provision or
approach that suits all (Learning and Skills Council,
2009, p19).
In comparison with employment, which is
recognised as being of value for people using
mental health services, learning is not always as fully
acknowledged. However, in March 2009, the Learning
and Skills Council (LSC) set out their strategy for
implementing their vision of learning for both living
and work, part of which is to
‘ensure that we can enhance the opportunities
available to all by listening to and involving
people who experience mental health
difficulties at all levels and in many different
ways. This may include people who experience
mental health difficulties who are already
involved in learning as well as those who still
face barriers to participation’ (Learning and
Skills Council, 2009, p10).
The LSC uses the term ‘mental health difficulties’ to
‘refer to those difficulties that people experience
in accessing, remaining and succeeding in
Aspects of learning in
a mental health setting
LEARNING
Sue Atkinson
Learning Adviser, Social Inclusion and Wellbeing Team, Nottingham Healthcare (NHS) Trust and member of the
Education Managed Innovation Network (MIN)
Vicky Reynolds
Member of the Education MIN
Abstract
This article explores some of the meanings and implications of learning for both the learner and the learning
adviser in a mental health setting. It discusses the relationship of learning and employment, aspects of the
lived reality of learning while experiencing fluctuating levels of distress and what kinds of support can help.
It identifies barriers that need to be overcome on both individual and societal levels, and the benefits of
supportive staff with an enthusiasm and awareness of learning needs.
Key words
Learning; Support; Mental health; Employment
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