In this episode of SimCast, Tony and Lawrence sit down with James Pathan and Kiran Virk to explore the remarkable origins of Maudsley Learning⁠, the UK’s first dedicated mental health simulation centre. From a single mannequin in a box to a nationally recognised centre of excellence, James and Kiran share how they pioneered mental health simulation, developed immersive actor-led scenarios, and built a sustainable simulation programme within the NHS.

The conversation explores the unique challenges of simulating mental health care, the use of professional actors rather than standardised patients, and the creative techniques used to create authentic learning experiences on limited budgets. We discuss psychological realism, sensory immersion, multidisciplinary learning, human factors, simulation technology, debriefing, and why people matter more than expensive equipment when building successful simulation programmes. This is the first episode of a three-part series examining the past, present and future of mental health simulation with Maudsley Learning.

For more information about Maudsley Learning and the Mental Health Simulation Conference, visit:

https://maudsleylearning.com/courses/mental-health-simulation-conference/?courseId=27935cf0-c910-f111-8341-7c1e5204b760

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