Psychological Health Observatory
The Psychological Health Observatory (PHO) is a partnership between Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) and the Department of Psychology at the University of Sheffield. The Psychological Health Observatory conducts world-class research, combining the clinical expertise of NHS staff with the methodological expertise of academic researchers.
Their central aim is to accelerate the impact of research in clinical practice within the NHS and improve public health in the wider community. They involve clinicians, patients, and community members in designing, delivering, and disseminating research focused on preventing and treating mental health problems.
University of Sheffield Psychology department
The University of Sheffield is a world top-100 university, renowned for the excellence, impact, and distinctiveness of its research-led learning and teaching. The Department of Psychology has a prominent national and international profile, with researchers exploring a wide range of topics:
- Neural networks and brain function
- Developmental, biological, and social mechanisms shaping human behaviour
- Physical and mental health issues and their treatment
The department uses diverse research methods and specialist facilities to study human behaviour, thinking, interaction, and health.
Within the department, the Clinical Psychology Unit (CPU) works closely with the Grounded Research team. Their research addresses the psychosocial determinants of mental health difficulties and seeks to improve the effectiveness of routinely delivered psychological therapies. Some members are pioneering the emerging field of precision mental health care, which aims to provide “the right treatment, to the right patient, at the right time”.
Research focus and key projects
The Psychological Health Observatory’s work concentrates on two main areas:
- psychological interventions for mental health problems
- occupational health interventions to prevent and reduce burnout
They also have a strong interest in digital health technologies and artificial intelligence, often incorporating technology-enabled interventions and decision-support tools. The Psychological Health Observatory welcomes collaborations with digital technology developers and companies.
Highlighted projects
Chimp Paradox Model (CPM)
The Chimp Model, developed by Professor Steve Peters and the Chimp Management team, is a psychological self-help approach widely applied in workplaces and education. It helps individuals manage their “inner chimp”, the emotional, instinctive part of the brain, alongside reason and belief systems to improve well-being and performance.
To establish it as an evidence-based intervention, rigorous research has been conducted in partnership with Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust, the University of Sheffield, and the University of Derby. Studies demonstrate that the Chimp Model can improve psychological wellbeing and reduce occupational burnout across healthcare and educational settings.
Since 2019, the research has progressed through a series of key studies. A feasibility study with over 200 teachers from 46 UK schools explored its impact on occupational burnout and wellbeing. In 2020, a study with secondary students at risk of exclusion indicated positive engagement and behaviour change.
A pivotal randomised control trial (RCT) with NHS nurses in 2020, using the Mind Management Skills for Life Programme, showed significant reductions in occupational burnout and improvements in psychological wellbeing, with findings published in the Journal of Mental Health. This was followed by a qualitative study in 2023 with UK teachers, further examining the Model’s effect on wellbeing.
Most recently, an randomised control trial involving 347 NHS resident doctors assessed the impact of the programme on burnout and wellbeing.
StratCare-2 Trial
StratCare-2 is evaluating the clinical and cost-effectiveness of stratified care for depression.
Currently, over a million NHS patients access psychological treatments each year, usually delivered through a stepped care model, which has a recovery rate of around 50%. Stratified care offers a more personalised approach, matching patients to the treatment best suited to their needs.
The StratCare app supports therapists by collecting information on symptoms, personality, and background to recommend the most effective treatment, either brief therapy or more intensive therapy. Patients discuss the recommendation with their therapist and decide whether to follow it.
StratCare-2 builds on earlier research showing that stratified care improves recovery compared to usual stepped care. The trial will follow patients for 18 months to evaluate the longer-term clinical and cost-effectiveness of AI-driven stratified care versus standard care for adults experiencing depression.
Occupational burnout research
The Psychological Health Observatory is also investigating psychological interventions to reduce burnout among NHS professionals, translating research into practical strategies that support staff wellbeing.
Email: rdash.phobservatory@nhs.net
Page last reviewed: November 25, 2025
Next review due: November 25, 2026