The value of community psychology: Critical reflections from the NHS

Abstract

We both use ideas from community psychology to inform our work in the very different settings of public health, adult mental health and rehabilitation services. This paper outlines a critical community psychology approach, the constraining and enabling elements of the NHS, and how community psychology contributes 'effective and far reaching prevention needs organisational, institutional and social change. This is not only expensive but also involves conceding power and control, anathema to corporations and governments' (Albee & Fryer, 2003, p.73). © The British Psychological Society 2005.