A systemic supervisory methodology and approach used during COVID times: Collective cut-outs – a gift from the left hand

This paper sets out to explore the use of a systemic reflexive exercise called “Collective Cut-Outs”, detailing its methodology and usefulness with “frontline” mental health practitioners within supervision and teaching contexts. We draw on the use of storytelling, image, creativity and the usefulness of the left hand (right brain) in clinical mental health contexts and focus on its value in reflexive supervisory groups. We also aim to give voice to the experiences of “frontline” Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) clinicians in an inner-city mental health team during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Collective Cut-Out exercise and its methodology provide a framework to help facilitate reflexive spaces that promote mindful group exercise and the subsequent expression of personal and professional resonance. The subjects of clinical challenge and collective resilience are also brought forth. We offer a case study in the second part of the paper, outlining the use of the exercise in a reflexive group supervisory context. The team in focus have kindly given us, the authors, permission to use their experiences and “cut-outs”. We have either adapted or removed identifiable information from the writing to protect and respect the identity of the team and individuals involved.