From checklists to more personalised care
Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust has made a major shift in how they assess and respond to risk, putting patients’ voices and lived experience at the heart of every safety decision.
In a move designed to improve care, prevent harm, and deliver efficient, more compassionate support, the trust has moved away from relying on static checklists or fixed scoring systems, and is instead working with patients to explore their individual circumstances, triggers, strengths, and needs.
The change is already helping staff respond faster and more effectively when a person’s situation changes, ensuring that they receive the right help at the right time.
Source: Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust, 17 February 2026