The Northumbria Oasis

In recent years, Northumbria Healthcare’s Bright charity has invested in a number of specially designed, dedicated spaces for staff and relatives to take time away from the busy clinical environment.

During 2019 the Bright charity team was approached by one of the nurses on the Critical Care Unit who was undertaking an environmental audit of the relative’s room on the unit. He reported that people were reluctant to spend time in the room as it felt bleak and sombre.

With evidence from the audit that things needed to change, the team began its own research, consulting with visitors to the unit, and staff, about how the room could be used, what facilities were required and what it could look like.

A mood board was developed to show staff and visitors the various options of colour schemes, furniture style and kitchens that could be considered. All of those involved were incredibly enthusiastic, showing how important the space was to them.

Originally the space had been furnished with dark coloured settees placed around the edge of the room so that everyone was looking in at each other. There were vending machines for drinks and lockers for personal item, this gave a very impersonal and institutional feel to the room.

Now the space has been transformed into an oasis, using a therapeutic colour scheme based on nature to create a calming and tranquil environment. Relatives can rest, sleep, eat, relax and have much needed quiet time – a space for private conversations. 

The room now offers a bright and supportive welcome to visitors and has been carefully organised into a rest area with recliner chairs (screened by a decorative bookcase), some group seating areas for quiet conversations, a dining area and stylish kitchen area for those popping in for a quick break. The Bright charity provides drinks, snacks and biscuits for users and volunteers take pride in keeping it looking clean and tidy so it’s ready for everyone who needs to use it.

The Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management team on site provided technical assistance and installation support, and without their help the project would not have been possible. The charity team worked with the painters, joiners, electricians and supervisors, all of whom gave extra care and attention to the room.

The feedback from relatives and staff has been incredibly powerful and positive, showing that the environment has had a significantly positive effect on wellbeing.

This was very evident when, during the pandemic, the oasis was dedicated for staff use as a ‘wellbeing space’ with various items and treats supplied. It really helped to lift the spirits of staff, especially when decorated with artwork and messages of support from the local community, including children and local schools.

“The room has definitely been of benefit from a physical and psychological perspective for staff, a place where they can relax and have some ‘timeout’ from the extremely stressful environment of caring for critically ill Covid patients. Staff have been able to enjoy their rest breaks with the added benefit of being able to socially converse following social distancing rules and the large area of the visitors’ room has been able to provide that for them.”

Matron, Critical Care

Funding raised by the NSECH NVS shop and a donation by the Calendar Lads fundraisers.