We are delighted to announce that the distrACT app has won the British Medical Association 'Patient Information Award' in the wellbeing category. Self-Injury Support supported the development of the app in collaboration with Expert Self Care Ltd, experts from Bristol Health Partners, the Improving Care in Self-Harm Health Integration Team (STITCH HIT), 4Mentalhealth, researchers from the University of Bristol, health professionals from University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust and other local and national organisations. 

The free distrACT app gives people who self-harm and who may feel suicidal quick, easy and discreet access to information and advice, so they can manage difficult feelings, cope with a crisis and find help and support.

The BMA Awards encourage the production, dissemination and evaluation of patient information materials that are accessible, evidence-based and well-designed - and that support patients as active participants in decisions about their care.

A spokesperson from the BMA award committee commented on the app:

"This is a very well-researched and put together application for people at risk of self-harm and suicide, which offers a lot of information and support in a simple and effective format. The information, for example in the section on physical self-harm, is written in a neutral and non-judgemental tone and is structured around questions the user may be asking. A wide range of health professionals has been involved in the development of this app, from academics to front-line clinicians. These include clinical professionals with expertise in information technology in healthcare, and individuals working directly with people who self-harm. The involvement of experts and professionals in the development of this app is outstanding."

As a charity our mission is to improve support and knowledge around self-injury and this app is a great way to support young people who may have nowhere else to turn to at a crucial time in their lives. Shockingly, the UK still has one of the highest rates of self-harm in Europe, with 400 in every 100,000 people harming themselves. 

The app is now available on the NHS Apps Library which is great news and will make it more accessible to those who need it. It can be found here: https://www.nhs.uk/apps-library/distract/