Publish date: 23 November 2023
Last week, the team at Rowan View organised three days of celebratory events to mark three years since the medium secure unit was opened, in November 2020.
Head of Operations Carl Howard wanted to recognise and celebrate the hard work of staff in the last three years. In particular, their resilience in the face of opening during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Carl said: “This was a great way to celebrate – something I know is way overdue but recognises the coming together of Whalley and Scott Clinic to create newly formed teams in a state-of-the-art environment. There was a real sense of togetherness across the three days. Best of all was our service users and families enjoying the events, with staff feeling valued by the service. I want to thank everyone who played a role in the organising – what a terrific celebration!”
Each day of celebrations recognised a different facet of Rowan View. Tuesday 14 November saw a staff wellbeing event (with excellent support from OE colleagues), comprising of, facials, massages, mini health checks, with a buffet and smoothies on offer.
Staff “loved their sessions and reported how lovely it was to have this time off the ward.”
Another staff member said “the buffet was enjoyed by all and the utterly amazing facial from the lovely Lynsey. It was such an enjoyment for everyone who attended and lots of people commented how positive it made them feel for the rest of the day.”
On Wednesday 15 November, carers and families were invited into Rowan View for a tour and a showcase of the therapy and activities service users have been undertaking. This included creative writing, and a bake-off organised by First Step Trust (FST) who run the Curve café in Rowan View and offer work placements for patients.
Feedback from carers who attended was overwhelmingly positive. Relatives talked about their family members’ journeys through the secure care pathway and how well they are doing. One relative said, “if I could tell any relatives of someone that has just been admitted to Rowan View anything, it would be that this unit is safe!”
The final day of celebration focused on service users and staff, with each ward attending the sports hall for their own 45-minute session throughout the day. Service users were able to enjoy animal therapy with Home Safari as well as a photo booth, ice cream van, pizzas and giant games (pictured).
Service users were delighted to have this experience, with one saying “today meant a lot to me! I really enjoyed myself surrounded by animals and people.”
Another remarked that “the photos were amazing because I got forever pictures with my best friend. Thank you so much Rowan View for a lovely hour of fun.”
Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make the events happen.