Leading Kent addiction charity secures top Psychiatrist, expanding and developing its services
Kenward Trust, is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Annie McCloud – Consultant Addictions Psychiatrist, from October 2024.
"This is a game changer for Kenward Trust, as a leading residential rehab service in the country. The appointment of Dr Annie McCloud enhances the support we can offer those suffering with addiction. Having a Consultant Addictions Psychiatrist, as part of our team, underpins our strategy of developing our services to meet the changing needs, and substance misuse of those we treat." Chief Executive, Penny Wiliams.
This strategic development is part of the expansion of the residential rehab centre in Yalding increasing the bed capacity from 31 to 41 and in response to an increase in referrals but also the changing choice of drugs in the UK.
“I am delighted to join the Kenward Trust team to help develop their services for clients with complex needs. I have 20 years’ experience in Addictions Psychiatry. I am a Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and hold degrees in psychology and medical anthropology as well as medicine.
For the last 7 years I have worked at the Bridge House detoxification unit here in Kent and worked closely with Kenward Trust. I am committed to providing holistic, co-produced, and evidenced-based assessment and treatment for individuals with addiction and complex needs.” Says Dr Annie McCloud,
Kenward Trust treats people from all over the UK with alcohol and drug addiction issues, and is seeing an increase in Ketamine misuse. For example, around 20% of weekly enquiries at Kenward relate to Ketamine addiction, compared to last year which would have been around 5%. Kenward are having to adapt and move with times as drugs misuse is becoming more complex with worrying physical outcomes. For example, more and more parents are reaching out making enquiries as they have youngsters between 16-23 years old with issues, also a higher percentage of them are female.
Ketamine use in England and Wales has more than doubled since 2016 and more than tripled in people under the age of 25. Studies further show that individuals as young as 21 years need major surgery as a result of chronic ketamine use.
“Our trauma-informed approach drives us to diversify our services to fully meet our resident’s needs, and the addition of a Consultant Addictions Psychiatrist will be hugely beneficial to our residents as they work toward their recovery goals. Dr. McCloud is perfectly placed to achieve this, and it is my pleasure to welcome her to the team. Her extensive knowledge, experience and expertise will benefit both residents and clinical staff, as we all work towards achieving the best possible outcomes that promote sustainable recovery” Mark Holmes, CQC Registered Manager.