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Helen joined the policy team in 2013. She has expertise in health service research and a particular interest in mental health and service user and carer involvement. During this period she has led on a number of projects covering service transformation and pressures in the mental health system, and on the role of individuals including supporting self-management, involvement of patients and carers across the health system, and an evaluation of local Healthwatch.
Previously she worked at the Institute of Psychiatry at King’s College London, where she remains a visiting researcher. This research has included a national study of residential alternatives to psychiatric hospital admission, implementation of recovery-orientated care in the community, and a trial of assertive outreach treatment for people with alcohol dependence.
Helen holds a PhD in zoology from the University of Birmingham.