Rochford patients and staff share festive cheer

Staff and patients on wards at Rochford Hospital have been getting into the festive spirit by taking part in lots of fun-filled activities.

Staff at the Cumberlege Intermediate Care Centre (CICC) have organised wreath making, raffles and tombola's for their patients, and had a visit from the very popular Essex Therapy Dogs.

Patients and staff have also been singing Christmas carols every Friday throughout December.

CICC provides intermediate care for adults who have had a period of illness, immobility, stroke or a fall.

Ryan Cossington-Webb, Associate Director for Intermediate Care in mid and south Essex, said: “Our staff and patients have really enjoyed getting involved in the festivities this year.

“We have had so much fun and it's been lovely to see the joy in the room.

“We have lots of activities throughout the year which the patients really enjoy taking part in and we are looking forward to continuing this next year.”

Staff and patients at Willow ward, which provides mental health care, have also been getting into the Christmas spirit.

Patients have been taking part in activities including decorating festive biscuits and everyone enjoyed a special Christmas party.

Nurse Tanaka Matsa said: “One of the most touching moments was witnessing patients leaving their rooms and joining in the festivities for the first time since admission.

“This is testament to the positive environment we try to create throughout the year - all the more important from those in hospital over the festive period

“Staff and patients have worked together to transform the ward into a place of festive celebration and community spirit which is at the centre of what we strive to do all year round.”