The Access Team make up part of Lincolnshire’s Children and young people's services. As a team we look at all referrals that are sent into Healthy Minds, the Mental Health Support Teams, or CAMHS to consider which, if any, of the teams are most likely to be able to provide the best support.
We also staff the 24/7 Lincolnshire Here4you line (0800 234 6342), providing advice to young people, parents, carers or professionals such as teachers. In this telephone call, we may give tips and strategies on ways you could help yourself, or we may agree together that you need some extra support from us. If we do not think we are the best place to help, we will always let you know who is and where to go next.
Call Handler(s)
The call handlers are the first voices you will hear when you call the line. They are like the front door to our services; they are not clinicians so won’t be asking much detail about the circumstances leading to your call. They will ask you a brief set of questions. They will need to know who you are i.e., if you are a young person, a parent/carer or professional, where you are calling from, and a very brief description of why you are calling the line. The call handlers will try to put you through to a practitioner right away, however, if they can’t they will book you into an appointment slot.
All our call handlers are supported by our Lead Administrator, who sometimes may also take initial calls.
Emma, CYP Access Team Administrator
My name is Emma and I have worked for Lincolnshire Partnership Foundation Trust for 5 years, previously working as an administrator in CAMHS and since October 2023, I have worked for the CYP Access Team. I really enjoy being part of such a friendly and caring team, and feel proud of the service we provide.
Outside of work, I love spending time with friends and family and taking long walks on the beach, and also travelling to new places!
James, CYP Access Team Administrator
I'm James, one of the CYP Access Team administrators. I moved into this role in November 2023 previously working for the Lincoln Core CAMHS team for 4 years. I love working for the team because like me they have a huge passion and dedication for the mental wellbeing of the children and young people in our community.
I have two wonderful little boys, when I'm not being tired out by them I like growing things to put in the garden and watching sport (I'm more of a spectator than a partaker!)
Jenny, Call Handler
Hello, My name is Jenny. I have worked for Lincolnshire Partnership Foundation Trust for over 10 years, I have found everyone that works for the Here4You Access team have been overwhelmingly welcoming and professional, their passion and commitment to the job that they do is undeniable.
I have a young boy and two baby pooches that like to keep me busy. In my spare time I enjoy going out for the odd day trip or weekend away but what I really enjoy is watching the latest film or programme and filling up on chocolate.
Jo, Call Handler
My name is Jo and I’ve worked as a call Handler with the CYP access Team since January 2023. Prior to this I have worked In Education for some 20 years! My last role as an Attendance Welfare Co-ordinator was challenging and made me realise just how many young people are currently struggling with their mental health, needing services such as this. I enjoy talking with people and love working and being part of such a caring and supportive team.
When I’m not walking my cat, I enjoy spending time with my family and going on weekend adventures, exploring new places or cosying up on the sofa to a good film!
Kaylea, Call Handler
I am Kaylea, a Here4You Access Team Call Handler. This is my second role within LPFT, previously I was a Senior HealthCare Support Worker on the PICU, so I am finding this role very different so far. I have always worked in care settings such as care homes, hospital wards and clinics.
I have three children, two cats and a puppy, all of which keep me extremely busy! I love meeting new people and in my spare time I like to go out and about with my children, walk my dog, cook, clean and decorate.
Manjula, Call Handler
Hi, I am Manjula, a CYP Access Team Call Handler. I have been with LPFT for the past 2 years working as a Team Secretary in the Older Adult’s service. This role is very different to my previous one, but I already love being a Call Handler and being able to help young people, parents and professionals. I find the team welcoming, professional and passionate about their job.
I have 2 teenage boys, who keep me busy. I love reading and watching old or new films in my spare time with some nibbles. I like going for long walks and enjoy the countryside views.
Sandra, Lead Administrator
Hi! My name is Sandra and I am the Here4You Access Team - Lead Admin. My previous role was in Healthy Minds and I have been with the NHS for 4 years. Prior to this I was a PA in a school for nearly 10 years.
I love being part of the Access Team as I get to talk to lots of different people and I enjoy lots of the background admin jobs that forever need doing!
I love being outdoors, exploring the countryside, going to the beach and for walks and am looking forward to finding another doggie soon as mine sadly passed away during lockdown. I like exercising too and really enjoy Body Pump even though I often ache for days…!
Practitioner(s)/Senior Practitioner(s)
These are the people you will talk to about the reasons why you called the Here4You line and what you feel you need support with. If you submit an online referral a practitioner may call you back to get more information (we call this triaging). They also talk to parents/carers and professionals who call the line. The title ‘practitioner’ may sound a little scary, however be assured that they are there to listen and ensure you get the right help. All practitioners have relevant training and lots of experience working in a range of services- as you can see from our staff profiles!
Abi, Practitioner
Hello, my name is Abi. I am a Here 4 You Access Team Practitioner. I have worked in the NHS since qualifying as a Paediatric Nurse in 2012. During this time, I have worked on a variety of children’s wards, and I have had the opportunity to work with children and young people’s services and supported Children and Young people requiring Mental Health and Emotional wellbeing needs. I am proud to be a part of the Here4You Team, everyone is caring, supportive and passionate about what they do.
In my spare time I love spending time with my Family and Friends, having days out and exploring new places, taking our dog out for walks and visiting the beach.
Ange, Practitioner
I have previously worked in Healthy Minds and the adult Steps2Change service.
My favourite things in the world are being a Mum to my 3 children, I love cats and have 2 pet cats at home Charlie and Winston!
I love playing games with my family, hanging out with my twin sister and I collect crystals! I also love eating sweets and cakes and watching cooking programmes
Cassie, Practitioner
My name is Cassie and I joined the CYP Access Team in April 2024 as a CYP Access practitioner. Prior to joining the team I have worked with Children and Families for a number of years in Lincolnshire, and most recently working as part of a family support team for a local adults and children’s hospice.
I am enjoying my new role and being part of a team who are very passionate about supporting young people.
In my spare time I enjoy lots of walking, exploring new places, reading and spending time with my friends and family (including my lovely dog and cat!).
Emma, Practitioner
Hi, I’m Emma and I am a CYP Access Team Practitioner. I have worked in the NHS for several years and have previously worked in a Mental Health Support Team and with young people in care. Everyone here at the access team is incredibly friendly, supportive, and passionate about achieving the best outcomes for young people.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and my two dogs, Dee, a lovely black Labrador, and Logan, a mischievous Beagle cross. I also love attending live music events and festivals, and I'm a big fan of Harry Potter and all things sci-fi!
Emma, Practitioner
Hello, my name is Emma. I have recently joined the Here4You Access Team at Lincolnshire Partnership Foundation Trust, the team have been so welcoming, supportive, and always go the extra mile to support each other within the team.
I joined Lincolnshire Partnership Foundation Trust as an apprentice administrator in 2015, since then I have worked within the trust in the adult division supporting those to live well in the community.
In my spare time I enjoy walking my dog, I have recently started swimming and love completing renovation projects in my home.
Karen, Practitioner
My name is Karen and I have been a mental health nurse for almost 25 years. I have worked in a variety of different mental health teams, but over the last 6 years I have worked in CAMHS, Healthy Minds, MHST and now the CYP Access Team. I live by the sea and enjoy taking my 2 dogs for a walk on the beach. I love animals and also have 4 cats, a bearded dragon and fish! I also love family time and we enjoy going to the cinema, bowling, days out and holidays.
Kirsty, Practitioner
Hi, I am Kirsty and I am a CYP Access Team Practitioner. I have previously worked in the NHS as a staff nurse in Medical Outpatients, School Nursing Team, and School Aged Immunisation Service. More recently I have supported children and young people in various education settings. The whole team are very approachable, supportive and we all share a passion for what we do.
I enjoy a busy family life with 3 children and love to be active and outdoors walking my cockapoo, Reggie! I love yoga and more recently paddle boarding and hiking. My favourite places are my garden and the beach.
Penny, Senior Practitioner
I was a Practitioner in Healthy Minds before working for the Here4You Access Team and I love my new role.
My favourite things are my dog, Harry Potter, Disney and Marvel. My spare time is spent spoiling my dog, going to the theatre/singing showtunes, watching movies and impressing everyone with my Harry Potter knowledge!
I also enjoy crafting and upcycling boring furniture.
Sam, Senior Practitioner
Hi I’m Sam! I’m one of the Senior Here4You Access Team Practitioners. I completed my degree in Education and Psychology, and have used this throughout my career in Healthy Minds, a Mental Health Support Team and CAMHS. I’m very passionate about the work that we as a team do, and they’re all so friendly and supportive to each other and everyone they speak to.
In my time away from work I enjoy going for walks with my dog, planning new travelling adventures and playing piano. I also am working on my yoga practice as it’s a great way to help me stay calm and feel revitalised, and to constantly feel challenged to push myself to achieve more. I sometimes spend time in front of the camera for local photographers to help them build their portfolios too!
Vicky, Senior Practitioner
Hi, my name is Vicky and I am one of the Senior Practitioners in the Here4You Access Team. I am a Social Worker by background and have previously worked in Healthy Minds, Leaving Care and Domestic Abuse services.
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family and friends. My passion is travelling and visiting new countries, and the beach is my happy place where I feel calm and refreshed. I also enjoy watching my children play various sports, and I like listening to live music.
Will, Practitioner
I am Will, a Here4You Access Team Practitioner. I have previously worked in CAMHS and Healthy Minds. I’ve been in the NHS for 6 years and previously have worked with Charitable Organisations. I also spent 24 years in the Royal Air Force Medical Services, serving around the world.
I really enjoy my current role as I get to work in a fantastic team and talk to so many different people. In my spare time I enjoy watching classic movies, all types of sport, listening to all types of music (not too keen on Jazz), walking, cycling, aquacise, and continue to play as much golf as I can.
Team Coordinator
The Team Coordinator supports and coordinates the team and works behind the scenes to make sure that all processes work properly and oversees the day to day running of the service
Becky, Team Co-ordinator
I am Becky, I am the Children and Young People's Access Team Co-ordinator. I have previously worked in CAMHS and Healthy Minds and before that I have worked with adults and older adults; I’ve been around the NHS for a long time! I love my current role as I get to work with the loveliest people.
My favourite things are animals and eating cake. In my spare time I walk my dogs, cuddle my cat, watch lots of sport, eat lots of cake and try very hard (but not successfully) to play golf.
When we were young...
For Children's Mental Health Week, the Children and Young People (CYP) Access Team have sat down together to discuss what made them worry when they were young and how they overcame it.
Please read below, several accounts from the team.
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When I was a teenager, I struggled a lot with anxiety around school because of the pressure to be a high achiever. I ended up trying to cope with it through self-harm for a long time. I managed to confide in a friend, who encouraged me to speak to someone. It was a tough journey, but they helped me change my behaviours and find new ways to cope. The confidence I now have to live my life is owed to that friend and professional.
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During secondary school in sixth form, I struggled with my confidence and low self-esteem. This had a knock-on effect with my learning and not wanting to attend school due to struggling academically with school work for my A-levels and feeling overwhelmed. I reached out and spoke with my career advisor at school where they gave me useful information where I was able to apply for apprenticeship. I noticed a massive shift in my confidence when I was able to learn the skills at the same time doing my apprenticeship qualification.
I excelled in doing something I enjoyed which improved my self-esteem and I honestly don’t think I would be where I am today doing the job I do today if did not get the opportunity to complete my apprenticeship following speaking out and getting the support.
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When I was at school, I was terrified of having to go into the huge hall for my exams, surrounded by so many people. I felt like everyone was staring at me. I managed to overcome this feeling by speaking with my Pastoral Manager who organised for me to sit at the back of the hall, close to the doors so that I could stand outside with the exam invigilator when I was feeling overwhelmed.
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As a 12/13-year-old I used to feel terrified of walking into school assembly, I imagined everyone staring at me and laughing at the way I walked. I would lay awake at night worrying about the next morning. I talked to my form tutor about it and she explained how to challenge my thoughts, my confidence gradually grew until in 6th form I was even able to take part in presenting the assembly on the stage in front of everyone.
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When I was younger, I lost a parent to suicide, and I found it hard to process it and I became anxious about what future life would be like without them. I found that talking about my anxiety and feelings helped. Talking also helped my family and professionals support me to feel listened too and understood. In time it became easier and was able to think and talk about the happier times and memories which made me feel less anxious about the future.
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When I was younger and started Secondary School, I really struggled with my friendships and was very self-conscious, I had spots, a brace and frizzy hair and only started Secondary with one friend from Primary School; all my other friends were at a different Secondary School. I started to feel anxious about school, I would cover my face while speaking to people to try and hide my spots. I was always very worried someone would mention them, and I would feel silly. I was greatly supported by a teacher who helped me to challenge some of my thoughts, helped me to see all the amazing things about myself and my friendships I had, and my confidence grew and grew as I went through school. I’m pleased I spoke to someone about my struggles, it really helped me.
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When I was around 14 or 15 I had really bad spots on my face. This used to make me feel incredibly self-conscious and I would put lots of make-up on to cover my spots. I sometimes used to avoid talking to people close up as I didn’t want anyone to see how bad my skin was. I talked to my Mum about how I felt and together we went to the doctors to get some help, and they prescribed some medication. This took time to work, but gradually I started to feel more confident, and was able to wear less make up. Talking and sharing my worries really helped me to problem-solve the situation.
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I had a period where I experienced sleep difficulties linked to feeling overwhelmed with coursework and exams at school. With time, a few things helped me. I looked at my sleep routine and made a few minor changes, I shared my difficulties with family/friends, I made time for being active, I put together a study diary and ensured I made time for the things I enjoyed. Although at the time it felt like I would not sleep well again, I overcame this difficult time and still utilise a lot of the strategies in my adult life.
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I went to a very small primary school, and I remember I was so worried about moving to secondary school. This meant catching a bus and trying to find my way around a massive building. I realised that when I got both on the bus for the first time, and when I arrived at school, that there were plenty of people in the same position as me and lots of people there to help, knowing that we might be struggling. Opening up to other people about what I was finding hard (both teachers and other pupils) really helped lessen the worries and made me think less about what ‘might’ (but probably wouldn’t) happen.
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When I was 9 years old, my sister’s friend was abusive and aggressive to me and my younger brothers. I was frightened, worried and anxious. What would happen when he was around? I struggled to sleep just in case he appeared. I was too frightened to speak to my parents. This went on for nearly two years, until I eventually spoke to my uncle. He offered reassurance and support, as well as discussing the issues with my parents. My parents stopped him from visiting the house, my worries and anxiety reduced, and I became less frightened. I learned that to share my worries and fears with someone you trust helps reduce your anxiety and worries greatly.
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All the way through secondary school I felt embarrassed and self-conscious and not good enough and I could go bright red so easily. I found that by doing sport I could be good at something and so I did as much sport as I could, before school, after school, and at lunchtimes. It meant I didn’t have to stand around on my own. I swam, played netball, played volleyball and my confidence improved. I still felt self-conscious all the time but by being in teams I had more friends and lots of people that said hello to me in corridors – it all helped me get through school and if our team had to go out in assembly because we’d won something I didn’t go as red because there were more of us.
