A Patients Life on Cardigan Ward
Chat Issue May 2009
We are a very active ward, often putting together fun days such as "Lets Beat the Winter Blues" in which both staff and patients participated. We had a range of fun activities with the soaking of members of staff, with arms and head in the stocks, being the most popular. Both staff and patients seemed to really enjoy themselves.
Other events have taken place that have been enjoyed by all include the Indian and Chinese evenings. "We are the ward that puts great events together", is our challenging war cry.
Now let us look at the work some of Cardigans patients have done in regards to gardening. Firstly, we have a dedicated garden just outside the ward. Working on this has proven to be very therapeutic. It´s very hands on, natural, and very satisfying when you see the fruits of your labours. Vegetables have been cultivated and grown and include potatoes, leeks, spinach and carrots. Flower beds have also been planted and nurtured parallel to the clinic. These flowers can even be seen from the road.
Cardigan also has its´ own courtyard, complete with bird table on which hungry birds can sometimes be seen from the smoking room.
We also have regular community meetings where both staff and patients can express opinions on how to improve the ward. The fact that both staff and patients get together does, most feel, promote feelings of inclusion and well being.
The house keepers no longer make snacks which is no bad thing! We now make our own snacks in the evening.
Finally, we´d like to mention that Cardigan ward now has an open door policy. This means that patients can exit or enter the ward without the need of staff having to unlock the doors. This does promote an atmosphere of trust on the ward and a small amount of freedom.