Two specialist health services in Barnet have been nominated for a national healthcare award.

Barnet clinical commissioning group’s (CCG) Reimagining Mental Health programme and a project to improve respiratory care for asthma patients have both been shortlisted for the Health Service Journal’s Value in Healthcare awards.

Reimagining Mental Health, launched with Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health NHS trust, has been providing more localised mental health care closer to patients’ homes.

With a team of dedicated “linkworkers” who have specialist training, emotional health check-ups are delivered across the borough and many local volunteer groups have stepped forward to help.

Clinical lead for the programme Dr Charlotte Benjamin said: “I am thrilled the benefits this programme has brought to Barnet residents have been recognised by the national healthcare awards.

“The programme puts local residents at the centre of services, ensuring it meets their needs and reduces the need for patients to travel to hospital.

“I’m particularly pleased that Reimagining Mental Health provides a platform for ongoing improvements in the future with a clear vision among residents, carers, voluntary organisations and healthcare providers to work together to continue improving services.”

The asthma programme has saved more than £50,000 for the local NHS by inviting patients in for asthma reviews to try different inhalers and be coached on how to use them properly.

Darush Attar-Zadeh, from Barnet CCG said: “By working closely with GPs, nurses and pharmacists we have been able to improve care for people with asthma and help them to manage their condition more effectively.

“It has been so rewarding to see the difference this has made locally and it is fantastic to see the programme recognised by the HSJ Awards.”

Around half of patients do not use their inhalers properly, which can lead to unnecessarily strong prescriptions being given to patients.

Chair of the CCG Dr Debbie Frost said: “I am delighted these programmes have been recognised for their outstanding efforts to improve care for local residents.

“These are fantastic examples of what can be achieved when providers, commissioners, clinicians and residents work together to shape services and improve care.

“We look forward to continuing to work with our local communities to improve services in 2017 and beyond.”

The award results will be announced at the HSJ Value in Healthcare Awards on Tuesday 24th May at Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.