Supporting NHS Wellbeing
Shmedic is a creative health project dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of NHS staff while raising awareness of sickle cell disease and the importance of blood donation. Rooted in lived clinical experience, Shmedic uses storytelling, performance, and community engagement to open up conversations about resilience, compassion, burnout, identity, and care within the NHS.
Working in healthcare is meaningful, demanding, and often emotionally intense. NHS staff give extraordinary amounts of themselves to patients and communities, and Shmedic exists to acknowledge that reality, reduce stigma around seeking support, and signpost practical help.
Shmedic + NHS Workers
Post-Show Conversations
For selected performances, Shmedic is accompanied by post-show Q&A sessions that extend the experience beyond the stage.
These conversations create a thoughtful, welcoming space for healthcare professionals and audiences to reflect on the themes raised in the show — including wellbeing, burnout, identity, care, and resilience within the NHS. Led with sensitivity and care, the discussions invite honest dialogue, shared experience, and deeper connection between the work and the realities of healthcare life.
Where appropriate, post-show conversations may feature clinicians, creatives, or wellbeing practitioners, and are designed to feel open, respectful, and accessible rather than formal or clinical. They are an opportunity to pause, reflect, and be heard.
Details of performances that include post-show Q&A sessions will be shared in advance.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Support
If you work in the NHS and are experiencing stress, anxiety, burnout, low mood, or emotional exhaustion, support is available. Below are trusted organisations offering confidential help, resources, and guidance.
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NHS Practitioner Health
Confidential mental health and addiction support for doctors, dentists, and medical students.
https://www.practitionerhealth.nhs.uk
Samaritans
24/7 confidential emotional support for anyone struggling or feeling overwhelmed.
https://www.samaritans.org
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NHS People – Health and Wellbeing Hub
National NHS wellbeing resources, including mental health support, financial advice, and staff networks. https://www.nhspeople.nhs.uk
Shout
A free, confidential text support service for anyone in crisis. Text SHOUT to 85258.
https://www.giveusashout.org
The NHS Staff Mental Health and Wellbeing Hubs
Free, confidential support for NHS staff experiencing work-related stress or mental health difficulties.
https://www.england.nhs.uk/supporting-our-nhs-people/nhs-staff-mental-health-and-wellbeing-hubs/
The Mental Health Foundation
Research-based guidance and resources on mental wellbeing and prevention.
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk
Keep in touch
A Note on Seeking Help
Needing support does not mean you are weak or failing. It means you are human in a demanding system. Looking after yourself is an essential part of providing safe, compassionate care to others.
If you are in immediate danger or feel unable to keep yourself safe, please contact emergency services or attend your nearest A&E department.