Learn about the Psychological Professions Network

Have you ever heard about the Psychological Professions Network (PPN)? We recently took some time out to speak to Dr Suzanne Azer, our regional PPN Clinical Lead and Programme Manager to learn more about her role and the network.

Can you tell us about yourself?

My name is Suzanne and I’m the PPN clinical lead and programme manager in the south west. I trained as a clinical psychologist specialising in trauma-informed practice and staff training. I am also a senior lecturer in clinical psychology at the University of Exeter and oversee the clinical skills and equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) curriculum, including anti-racism training.

Can you tell us about the PPN?

The PPN is a membership network for psychological professionals in the NHS, commissioned psychological healthcare, trainees, educators, commissioners and experts by experience. It is commissioned by Health Education England to provide a joined-up voice for the psychological professions in workforce planning and development, drive education and training initiatives and support excellence in practice.

How long have you been involved with the PPN? 

I joined as clinical lead and programme manager in March 2021 and have now been in post for almost two years alongside my colleagues in our small team. 

What are the PPN's priorities? 

One of the PPN’s main priorities is supporting expansion in the psychological workforce to meet the requirements of the NHS Long-Term Plan. This involves monitoring and producing accurate data on how this is progressing and supporting training and upskilling initiatives. We host and support several networks and communities of practice where practitioners, trainees, experts by experience, educators and service leads share good practice.

As part of this, there is increasing awareness that an effective, inclusive workforce also needs to be diverse, trauma-informed and culturally competent. We have several areas in our work plan that aim to widen participation and give a voice to underrepresented and minoritised professionals and trainees. This goes hand in hand with amplifying the voices of service users and carers from all backgrounds and involving them in all aspects of the PPN’s work. 

We are also currently supporting the development of several new communities of practice to share good practices and develop this work.

What do you hope the PPN will do in the future?

The PPN’s reach and diverse membership puts it in a unique and fortunate position in terms of being able to both represent and influence our members, stakeholders and the public. Our membership includes NHS practitioners, trainees, service leads, higher education institutes, service users and the public. What is really exciting from my perspective is that there is currently a proliferation of initiatives and projects which seek to creatively address some of our most challenging and long-standing societal problems in terms of working towards more trauma-informed, equitable and inclusive services. 

We work to inform our members about this work, support and share learning through communities of practice, and promote its importance. As this involves a culture change, we can support the dissemination of accurate information, where there may not be clarity. There are some real opportunities to support the development of healthier, more equitable environments for trainees and qualified practitioners to work in and improve the experiences of services for those who need them. My hope is that our current and new members might become inspired to establish and join communities of practice where this work can be developed across the region.

Why do you like being a member of the PPN?

I work with a fantastic team who all have different backgrounds and talents! It’s inspiring to also work with colleagues across other regions, learn from them and share ideas. In terms of our work plan, engaging with communities and members, and hosting events and conferences are incredibly rewarding. There is great variety in the work and freedom to innovate. I think we make a difference in the networks and communities we serve.

What do you think are the benefits of being a member? 

• Keeping up to date about developments in NHS policy nationally and regionally.
• Joining and contributing to debates and consultations where you can learn from and influence colleagues and commissioners.
• Hear about our own and other professions’ activities including Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and events.
• Attend free events and contribute, including presenting to share your ideas and develop experience in presenting.
• Come together with colleagues and experts with experience in collaborative spaces.
• Learn about opportunities to get involved and hear about new roles and services.
• Join or set up a Community of Practice: special interest groups and networks across the region which are supported by the PPN.

If I was unsure about joining, what would you say to convince me to join the network?  

I would say all of the above and add that it is free to join. You’ll receive a fortnightly newsletter packed with the latest news and developments in the psychological professions including training and job opportunities. Our members tell us our quarterly members’ events are a highlight for them, so hopefully see you there. 

You can join the PPN network by clicking here.