Inpatient activity room undergoes a refurb to benefit patients

An activity room on a mental health ward in Chelmsford has been refurbished, helping patients to socialise and feel more at home.

Finchingfield ward, run by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT), provides inpatient care for men experiencing acute mental health problems.

Over the last few months staff on the ward at The Linden Centre have made changes to improve the patient environment, helping patients to feel as comfortable as possible as they receive inpatient care away from their loved ones.

Patients now have access to a newly refurbished activity room throughout the day which includes a pool table, television, games consoles, games and puzzles. The room is overseen by a member of staff and patients can come and go as they please.

Snacks and drinks are also being provided some evenings to encourage patients to socialise in communal areas and join in activities.

Adam Clarke, Ward Manager, said: “We really want to give our patients the best experience and are keen to create a community feeling on the ward where patients socialise, get to know each other and care for and respect each other.

“The activity room is really making a difference – it’s encouraging patients to engage and interact more with their peers as well as staff on the ward, creating a positive therapeutic environment.

“Feedback from patients has been positive. They tell us they are laughing more and it’s making their stay in hospital easier, which is ultimately what we are trying to achieve.”

In recent years, Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust has invested £20m in our wards to make them safe and therapeutic spaces.