Northamptonshire: Shed helps 'ignite passion' in hospital patients

The shed at Berrywood Hospital in Northampton provides a space for reflection, socialising and activities

A shed at a mental health hospital has helped "ignite a new or dormant passion" for its service users.

Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (NHFT) introduced the wooden work shed at Berrywood Hospital in Duston, Northampton, last summer.

It offers patients a space for reflection, socialising and activities.

Jenni Jenkins, a specialist occupational therapist at the hospital, said the "supportive setting" has helped individuals grow in confidence.

She said: "This project has been a springboard through which we have been able to support individuals to access further education, work and leisure groups in the community.

NHFT said the shed had helped patients build useful skills such as bike maintenance, furniture restoration, DIY and gardening in preparation for returning to their homes.

"Above all else, the shed is valued as an area off the ward that provides peace and a space where coping strategies can be practised to improve wellbeing," said Ms Jenkins.

The shed was introduced at Berrywood Hospital last summer

NHFT said that the service had such a positive impact on one female service user that she enrolled on a carpentry course at Northampton College.

The hospital's shed sessions have also been credited with supporting a male service user and retired carpenter to address aggressive behaviour, sleep through the night and build a daily routine.

The project was funded by Northamptonshire Health Charity, donations and through fundraising in the local community.

Rob Powell, from the charity, said: "We have been thrilled to hear so many amazing stories about the positive impact the workshed, that we funded at Berrywood Hospital, is having for patients.

"To ignite a new or dormant passion that goes on to increasing confidence and provide a real sense of achievement is brilliant."