Devon Wellbeing Hub testimonial – virtual workshop

Posted by Devon Partnership Trust in Mental health, News, Recovery and wellbeing on 13th June, 2024

Susan Smith, a Maternity and Neonatal Senior Independent Advocate from NHS Devon, talks about her experience of attending one of the Devon Wellbeing Hub’s virtual workshops delivered by Senior Colleague Wellbeing Practitioner, Anna Croucher.

• What virtual workshop did you attend and what did it involve?

I attended the ‘Emotional Self-Care’ workshop as I was keen to know more about taking care of myself.

During the session we explored what emotions are and how we use them. We also looked at the impact they have on our body, both physically and mentally, and how to manage our emotions.

• What were your key takeaways from the workshop?

For me it was how to control some of my emotions and how to reframe my thinking.

I was a bit cynical about it taking place virtually, however I found the facilitator really warm and welcoming. The other colleagues on the call were also very open and supportive. It was a good opportunity to think about me for that hour or so.

• Have you been able to make any changes to improve your wellbeing since the workshop?

Yes - I have used breathing techniques and also managed to reframe my thoughts at times of stress.

• Would you recommend the Hub to colleagues?

I would absolutely recommend any member of staff or manager to access the Hub. The last few years have been exhausting and we must all make sure we are doing everything possible to take care of our own health and wellbeing wherever possible. We have to do all we can for ourselves and our colleagues to make sure we don’t reach burnout.

• What advice would you give people who may be struggling?

You’re not alone. It may feel like it but it’s likely your colleagues will be feeling the same. Don’t feel that things can’t change, because they can. Invest in yourself and your wellbeing so that you can be the best version of you at both work and home. Taking care of yourself means you can care for others.

Anna said: “It’s a pleasure to facilitate workshops within the Devon Wellbeing Hub. My aim is to offer dynamic workshops, using a combination of coaching and psychological education, that empower staff to learn tools to take better care of their health and wellbeing.

“My background as an Occupational Therapist, Mindfulness Teacher and Executive Coach means that sessions are varied and diverse, with information presented in an accessible manner.

“My goal is for participants to leave feeling equipped to deal with day to day stressor and boost their self-care in meaningful ways. Often talking about our health can feel taboo, so I hope to creative inclusive, supportive sessions that encourage meaningful change for staff.”

If you work in healthcare, social care or the police in Devon and are interested in signing up for one of our free, virtual workshops, please visit our Eventbrite page. There are a variety of sessions on offer, including ‘Managing Imposter Syndrome’ and ‘Asserting Healthy Boundaries.’ If you have any questions, please email dpt.dwhworkshops@nhs.net.