Festive family and friends events at Langdon Hospital
Thanks to funding from our charity, Open Up, patients, carers and staff came together on Wednesday 10 December for two festive family and friends events across the Ashcombe, Holcombe, Warren, Cofton and Chichester House wards at Langdon Hospital.
Langdon Hospital is a specialist mental health hospital in Dawlish that provides medium and low secure care for men with complex mental health needs.
Held within the medium and low secure units, the events created a warm and welcoming space where families, patients and staff could spend relaxed and meaningful time together. Seasonal refreshments, creative craft activities, carol singing, a drumming workshop and pig racing brought smiles, conversation and a real sense of joy throughout the day.
A continuous static cycle ride ran throughout the events, promoting physical wellbeing and encouraging friendly participation from patients, carers and staff alike. These shared activities helped to break down barriers, foster openness and strengthen relationships in an environment that is often closed to visitors.
For many families, the events offered a rare opportunity to see inside the units and gain a better understanding of the care environment. Informal conversations with staff helped to build trust and reinforced the importance of working together, supporting the triangle of care between patients, carers and professionals.
Tom Woodd, Social Work Lead at Langdon Hospital, reflected on the impact of the day, saying: These events really matter. They give families, patients and staff a chance to connect in a positive and relaxed way and help everyone see the person beyond the clinical setting. Open Up's support made it possible to create something genuinely special for our patients, families and staff.
Feedback from those who attended highlighted improved morale, reduced feelings of isolation and a renewed sense of community pride. Patients spoke positively about the opportunity to take part in creative and physical activities, while carers valued the openness and transparency the events encouraged. Staff also reported stronger relationships and a deeper understanding of the people they support.
If you would like to know more about Open Up, the difference they make, and how you can get involved in supporting mental health and wellbeing across Devon, please visit www.openup.org.uk