PR firm secures deal with clinics group

11:57am Wednesday 12th March 2008

A NORTH-EAST public relations firm is celebrating after winning the contract to represent a chain of clinics famous for treating the addictions of the rich and famous from across the world.

Darlington-based Recognition PR is to represent The Priory Group, best known for treating the addictions of celebrities including singer Pete Doherty and footballer Paul Gascoigne.

What is less well known is that the group also works with youngsters with mental health issues, operates care homes and treats people who have suffered brain injuries.

The Priory Group consists of more than 50 hospitals, schools and care homes in the UK.

Recognition partner Graham Robb said: "We are delighted to have secured the PR contract for such a prestigious organisation.

"It is known for the celebrity clients, but it is also a significant player in health care from mental health and addiction to care homes.

"It is a field that Recognition has been working in for some time, as our clients include a number of other care homes.

"It wasn't a case of us making a big tender, it was our reputation and the knowledge of our work in the field."

With the exception of two facilities, a specialist school in Cumbria and a hospital in Scotland, The Priory's operation is based in the Midlands and Southern England.

As a result, next month, Recognition will be opening an office in Lichfield, in the West Midlands.

Mr Robb said: "To both secure this prestigious account and to be able to open a Midlands office is great news for us."

Philip Scott, The Priory Group's chief executive officer, said: "It is great to be working with Recognition. They have a good reputation in the sector."

Recognition PR was founded in 1990 and employs 15 people at its Darlington base. It is run by business partners Mr Robb and Frances Bourne.

It has expanded in recent years to develop its own TV studio, making videos and programmes for its clients.

The Priory Group owns two of the oldest independent psychiatric hospitals in the UK, The Priory Hospital Roehampton and The Priory Ticehurst House.

Although the group is most well known for its treatment of celebrities and addictions, it also treats and provides care for people with brain or spinal injuries, or degenerative mental illnesses.

Priory Education Services provides specialist education and care for children and young people aged four to 35 with Asperger's Syndrome, autistic spectrum disorders, behavioural, emotional and social difficulties and specific learning difficulties associated with dyslexia.