Friends and family of service users joined us at Ormskirk Hospital for a Summer Open Day and were joined by Titch the miniature donkey and goats Ant and Dec!
One of our first face-to-face open days since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic at the trust, the event on Wednesday, June 15, highlighted the benefits of pet therapy and gave friends and loved ones a chance to get an insight into our person-centered care at our two mental health wards, Scarisbrick and Lathom.
The relaxing sounds of Ormskirk Ukulele Band and sunshine set the scene as visitors petted our therapy animals, played traditional games and browsed stalls containing cakes and beautiful greetings cards made by our service users in occupational therapy sessions.
Vicky travelled from the Lake District to enjoy the Open Day with one of our service users - her friend of 30 years. Vicky said:
“It’s really nice to see everything they do here and the activities my friend can get involved in, the staff are lovely.”
The fun and interactive day illustrated how animals can bring comfort to our service users experiencing mental health problems and can provide everyone, staff included - with a wellbeing boost.
In blistering sunshine, our service users, families and staff also had the opportunity to take part in Pilates and yoga and learn more about our other services on our HARRI Bus (Health, Advice, Resilience, Recovery and Information), including our Mindsmatter talking therapies available across Lancashire.
Matron Rebekah Nwaka said:
“It was our first open day for a couple of years and just wonderful to showcase to families, friends and visitors, face to face - what we do here – and how our quality care and the activities our therapy teams provide really do impact on a positive recovery.”
