SCAS is tackling health inequalities across the South East by embedding Making Every Contact Count (MECC) into everyday patient interactions.
With high levels of deprivation affecting communities across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Hampshire, SCAS is training staff to turn every patient conversation into an opportunity to promote healthier lifestyles and connect people to vital support services.
Since the project began, three staff have qualified as MECC trainers, thirteen staff have completed full training, and ten SCAS governors have been introduced to MECC principles — building confidence among frontline staff to have meaningful wellbeing conversations.
Working in partnership with local Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and Oxfordshire County Council, SCAS is embedding MECC into staff induction, CPD, and annual updates. A new toolkit and flexible online sessions are also helping to manage momentum.
Stakeholder & Engagement Manager Margaret Eaglestone said:
“We’re empowering our teams to make every contact a chance to improve lives — one conversation at a time.”
Next steps include expanding training across the Trust, developing post-training peer support, and gathering real-life case studies to evidence the impact.
If you want to find out more about MEC please email meargaret.eaglestone@scas.nhs.uk