About the Partnership

Meeting in a circle

Why has VSO developed a partnership with Maudsley International?

VSO Sri Lanka’s mental health programme is contributing vital human resources to strengthen community based mental health services as part of the Sri Lankan government’s new mental health policy. But in order to make this a success VSO needs to encourage more mental health professionals from the UK to volunteer in Sri Lanka.

Who are the organisations brought together by this joint work?

VSO
VSO is the leading international development charity working through skilled and experienced volunteers. VSO has been working in partnership with the Sri Lankan government and civil society for over forty years.

VSO is one of the few organisations supporting holistic improvements to mental health services and training across Sri Lanka. Over the last 10 years VSO has supported the Sri Lankan Ministry of Health to develop a mental health policy, introduce best practice and establish a more social model of treatment. VSO-supported rehabilitation initiatives have been identified as best practice by the Sri Lankan Ministry of Health. VSO’s mental health programme is well regarded by the World Health Organisation in Sri Lanka and has just been awarded significant European Commission funding to scale up its impact.
SLaM
SLaM provides the most extensive portfolio of mental health services in the UK, and has a history that dates back to the foundation of the Bethlem Royal Hospital in 1247. The organisation offers pioneering teaching and training and is a key provider of clinical experience to international students and professionals.
Maudsley International
Maudsley International utilises the knowledge and skills of staff from both the Institute of Psychiatry and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust to help partners based around the globe meet the needs of people with mental ill health, and to promote mental health.

Quote:

'We advocate a more community-based approach to rehabilitation.'

Hugh Macleman, Country Director, VSO Sri Lanka


© 2008 VSO