Edward House, a mental health ward run by EPUT at The Linden Centre in Chelmsford, is seeing significant improvements in patient experience thanks to funding from EPUT Charitable Funds. These initiatives aim to create welcoming environments and provide opportunities for patients to connect, stay active, and feel more at home during their treatment.
The funding has supported a range of enhancements, including eight hand-painted wall murals, chosen by patients themselves, which brighten the wards and create a more personal, less clinical feel. Patients are actively involved in decisions about the ward's appearance, fostering a sense of ownership and comfort. Visitors have complimented the murals, and plans are underway to extend the project.
Debbie Ward, Ward Manager at Edward House, highlighted the positive impact of the murals, noting patient feedback such as 'They make the place look better and more cheerful' and 'I like that I helped pick them out too.' She emphasised the importance of patient involvement in shaping their surroundings, making the space feel more positive and like their own.
A portable table tennis table has also become a popular addition, with regular tournaments fostering a sense of fun, competition, and social interaction between patients and staff. These activities are recognised for their role in improving mood, reducing stress, and building confidence, providing structure and connection for those in inpatient care.
Furthermore, the charitable funds have enabled the purchase of two games consoles, four games, and additional controllers. These provide patients with opportunities for both independent play and shared activities, including racing and sports games, encouraging teamwork, communication, and social interaction regardless of individual interests or abilities.
Debbie Ward added that even relatively small amounts of charitable funding can have a significant impact, with simple additions like murals, games, or comfortable seating making a real difference to patients' daily lives, helping them connect and creating a more positive environment.
These initiatives at Edward House are part of EPUT Charitable Funds' commitment to enhancing patient, family, and carer experiences beyond standard NHS provision. EPUT is a leading provider of mental health and community care across the East of England region.
