Publish date: 25 July 2025
“Each and every patient is different, and their recovery journey does not just happen in therapy rooms.”
On Tuesday 15 July, patients from the Hammersmith & Fulham Mental Health Unit, based at the Meridian Ward enjoyed an uplifting day out in Hyde Park. Making the most of the sunny days, the group took a walk by the lake, followed by a relaxed picnic, full of laughter and shared positivity, away from their usual ward-based routines.
Olga (Ola) Prusinowska, Activity Coordinator from the service team said: “These day outs, usually organised after their lunchtime routine, help support their mental health and recovery. We know that each individual is different, and recovery does not just happen in therapy rooms.”
For many elderly patients, outings are rare due to their limited mobility, challenges in transport arrangements, or companionship. They follow a structured daily routine that includes group activities, medication times, meals, and rest periods at the unit. While this structure is essential for their stability and recovery, it can sometimes feel repetitive or restrictive. Occupational Therapist Ryan Lam added: “Getting out and about gives them normality, freedom, and connection. Their improved mood and energy were remarkable. Some opened up more while walking than they usually do in ward-based settings. That’s the power of nature and meaningful social interaction.”
Incorporating regular outings like this gives them renewed strength and hope. Service team members believe understanding a patient and their needs is important in shaping their recovery journey better. Ola said: “In every crisis, there’s a space, even for a little fun that can help them process what they’re facing.”
At the end of their trip, patients asked when the next outing would be. The service teams provided the space and chance for patients to give suggestions and ideas, and be involved in their care plans and decision-making – an important commitment to Trust’s approach in improving quality and caring with compassion.
The Hammersmith and Fulham Mental Health Unit is a mental health facility, providing a range of services including inpatient care, crisis, assessment and treatment teams (CATT), and specialized units like a psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU). Meridian Ward based inside the unit operates as an admission ward for elderly patients diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, psychosis, depression and bipolar disorder. However, due to high bed pressure, the ward also provides care for people with dementia.