Dementia-friendly mural helps create calmer hospital environment

A new dementia-friendly mural is helping to create a calmer and more welcoming environment for patients living with dementia, autism or complex needs.

The £1,012 mural has been installed in a hospital cubicle, helping to soften the clinical surroundings and provide a more reassuring space for patients during their stay.

Hospital environments can feel unfamiliar and overwhelming, particularly for patients who may find changes in their surroundings difficult to process.

The mural is one of the small changes made possible through charitable funding that can help improve a patient's experience of hospital care.

Jane Colwell, housekeeper, said: “The mural has made a huge difference to both our patients and staff. It creates a calm, welcoming environment for some of our most vulnerable patients, helping them feel more at ease.

“We've seen an immediate positive impact, particularly for patients living with dementia or a learning disability, and their families.”

The project was funded by Warrington and Halton Hospitals’ Charity, showing how donations can help make hospital spaces more comfortable for patients and their families.