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Peaceful space created to help mental health patients

Service users work with charity to create new calm room for people with mental health issues

Service users work with charity to create new calm room for people with mental health problems.


The Royal London Hospital where the new calming space has been built
Picture: Alamy

An emergency department has opened a new room with the aim of providing a calm space for patients who present with mental health problems.

The room at the Royal London Hospital in London is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK to have a 'hope wall' of art, including messages from people who have recovered from mental ill health.

The creators anticipate that the space will provide a peaceful place for people to discuss their mental health with staff, and find comfort from the displayed artwork.

Charity organisation Vital Arts worked closely with East London NHS Foundation Trust and Tower Hamlets Working Together Group to commission artist Mike Miles to create the space.

Nurse consultant Rikke Albert said: 'Service users were involved in the project from the beginning and were a driving force behind its design. The work not only symbolises hope, but shows the impact the can be made when physical and mental health organisations collaborate and work together.

'We hope the transformation shows the importance we place on supporting those struggling with their mental health'

Nurse consultant Rikke Albert

'The room has gone from a dreary, clinical area to a calm, peaceful and comforting place. We hope the transformation shows the importance we place on supporting those struggling with their mental health.'

Jane, a patient who helped to design the space including choosing colours and words on the wall, said she thought the room would help people in distress. 

'When you are in a state of anxiety and desolation, having something to focus your mind on, which is inspiring and uplifting, will help to feel like things will get better,' she said.


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