Director of Communications and Marketing in Platinum publication
18 Oct 2018
Sally Sykes contributes to Chartered Institute of Public Relations' 70th anniversary celebrations
The University’s Director of Communications and Marketing, Sally Sykes, has contributed to a new book, published by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) to celebrate its 70th anniversary.
Sally has written a chapter in Platinum, which features insights from thought leaders and showcases excellence in public relations.
‘Achieving parity of esteem for mental health’ discusses the role of public relations in removing the stigma of mental illness and ensuring mental health is as valued as physical health.
At any one time, a sixth of the population in England aged 16 to 64 have a mental health problem, according to statistics body NHS Digital.
At the same time, mental health services are incredibly stretched. Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCP) research, published earlier this month, found one in four patients had waited more than three months to see a specialist, causing major problems for people, with their mental health deteriorating, relationships breaking down and jobs being lost. The report also found that one in 11 consultant psychiatrist posts is unfilled, while nurse mental health vacancies are even worse at one in seven.
Sally’s last role before coming to work here at the University was leading communications for the West London Mental Health NHS Trust, whose area included Broadmoor high security hospital. Her career also took her to AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, the Health and Safety Executive, the board of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman, and BMI Healthcare.
Platinum is available in print and ebook from today.