Wakefield psychologist and child sexual abuse expert retires

A member of staff from the South West Yorkshire Mental Health NHS Trust – who has dedicated more than 20 years to supporting people with mental health problems in Wakefield – celebrated her retirement with a party at Fieldhead Hospital.

55 year old Kay Toon – who lives in Leeds – has worked as a clinical psychologist in Wakefield since 1985. In 1993 she wrote a self-help book, "Breaking Free: Help for survivors of child sexual abuse", with her late colleague Carolyn Ainscough. More recently she visited Estonia to help increase awareness of child sexual abuse in the country. Her book was translated into Estonian and was distributed free of charge to social workers, judges, hospitals, schools and therapists.

Kay said, "The satisfaction of seeing clients damaged by extremely difficult life experiences overcoming their problems and blossoming, and also the support and encouragement of my colleagues has been the most enjoyable part of my job."

She continued, "I hope to spend my retirement travelling, exploring and enjoying my pond, garden, fish and dogs! I’ve also booked a personal trainer!"