BESTIE
BESTIE is a new online resource and app designed to support children’s mental health and wellbeing. It has been designed and developed by children and young people working in partnership with clinicians and IT developers and we believe will transform the way younger people get online help and support.
It has already achieved national recognition, scooping a Meridian Innovation Award in recognition of its ground-breaking potential, and its driving force Dr Ben Rogers was up for the HSJ’s Clinical Leader of the Year Award in 2019.
BESTIE encourages users to engage in social, physical and health-related activities. One version of BESTIE will support children/young people who are accessing mental health services, providing online resources and tools to support their specific care plans, as well as resources which help them to track their mood, goals and progress. This will give them access to tailored help and guidance whenever they need it. A wider public version is also available to download which will provide more generic advice and support for young people and parents.
Dr Ben Rogers, Trust Lead for Psychological Interventions said, “Children and young people who use our services have been telling us for years that we need to make better use of technology in healthcare. As digital natives, they have an incredible expertise in the use of online technology which can help to guide the NHS. By taking a leading role in developing BESTIE, alongside clinicians and IT experts, young people in Worcestershire have helped to create a resource that will support others to reach their potential.”