New sensory project welcomed at hospital

Health care worker Rosie Lennon, assisted by nurses Evelyn Brankin and Natasha Johnston, tries out the new sanctuary in the Psychiatry of Old Age department of Lagan Valley Hospital. The sanctuary offers a quiet place and calm surroundings where patients can relax. US1426-565cd Picture: Cliff Donaldson

‘The Sanctuary’, was a previously unused space at ward 11 Dementia Assessment and Treatment unit at Lagan Valley.

Nurses received a donation from Fiona Jess whose mother was a former patient at the hospital.

£800 was raised at a table quiz and the money was used to decorate and buy equipment for the room and garden and two of the patients’ relatives acted as project managers.

Ann Scott, Nurse Consultant explained: “We now have a multi-sensory projector and a stimulation floor lamps which change colour.

“Research has shown that stimulation like this is therapeutic and reduces agitation.”

She added: “We were able to purchase pot plants, tables and chairs and the Trust have provided a special flooring to make the small garden safe for the patients.”

Ann continued: “Outdoor space is good for people.

“It is nice that the patients can feel the sun and even the rain on their skin.

“This really is going an extra mile to improve the life of patients.

“Special thanks must also be given to staff nurse Jacqui McCartney who was instrumental in pulling everything together.”