28 September 2026
Experts from across Sussex came together to explore how better understanding the links between women’s physical and mental health could improve care for women throughout their lives.
The event, hosted by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (SPFT) last week, brought together clinicians, health leaders and staff networks to discuss some of the issues affecting women’s health, from menopause and cognitive changes to chronic pain.
The conference comes as the NHS works to implement the Renewed Women’s Health Strategy for England, published in April 2026, which sets out a 10-year ambition to improve women’s health and ensure their voices are better heard within the health system.
Dr Sue Mann, National Clinical Director for Women’s Health, opened the conference by discussing the renewed strategy and its implementation.
The day then focussed on how women’s physical health can affect psychological wellbeing and how mental health services can better recognise and respond to the physical experiences women are going through.
Dr Susan Hennessey, Consultant Clinical Lead for Clinical Health Psychology at Sussex Partnership said:
“Women’s physical and mental health are closely connected, but the psychological impact of physical changes and illness can sometimes be overlooked. This conference was an opportunity for colleagues to step back and look at women’s health more holistically, share what we are learning locally and consider how we can provide care that better reflects women’s experiences throughout their lives.”
The conference also explored LGBTQ+ cultural competence and the importance of ensuring that services and screening are inclusive of trans, non-binary and intersex people who need to access women's healthcare.
The conference was attended by SPFT staff networks, including the Women’s Network, providing an opportunity for colleagues to share experiences and contribute to the conversation about improving women’s health.
The event reflects a growing focus on understanding women’s health across the life course and recognising that physical and psychological health cannot be considered separately.
Photo left to right: Dr Alex Faulkner, UCL Menopause Mind Lab; Dr Momotaj Islam, Clinical Psychologist; Dr Susan Hennessey, Clinical Lead for Clinical Health Psychology SPFT; Micheala Sonnen, National Head of Programmes for Women’s Health, NHS England
