The relaxation room in Whyteman’s Brae which is there for the use of adults and Older Adults using the Mental Health Occupational Therapy service has been given a makeover.
The room which is situated on the first floor of Whyteman’s Brae Hospital was previously in the words of staff, ‘a little bit sad and a dumping ground for the department’s stuff’. Now thanks to a generous donation of £3000 from the Friends of Victoria and Whyteman’s Brae hospitals, the room has been transformed into a light, bright welcoming space and is entirely fit for purpose.
The transformation project was the brainchild of Dawn Sherriff, Occupational Therapist in Mental Health who saw the need for such a space for patients and applied to The Friends of Victoria and Whyteman's Brae Hospitals with a proposal. Once this was approved, Dawn went on to work with Karen Masters, a retired lecturer in art, now works with users to create therapeutic environments in various healthcare settings. Karen not only specifies paint colours and artworks, but takes care to ensure that all furnishings and fittings comply with stringent infection control standards laid down by hospital teams. The Friends were only too pleased to be able to help with their stated aim to provide comforts and amenities for the benefit of patients and staff.
The room is a now a Therapeutic Space for clients with mental health problems. Clients would normally work with Mental Health Occupational therapists in either 1:1 sessions or group sessions. some of the groups include: Tia Chi, relaxation, Balancing mind and body & Cognitive Behavioural therapy. Its also has the added concepts of sensory stimulation that will support our patients experiencing anxiety and depression, helping to reduce agitation.
On visiting the room for the first time since its transformation Service user Eddie Houston was impressed ‘I think that the best thing is the new light which gives the room a wonderful uplifting feel and puts you in a better mood’.
