Elderly patients are being encouraged to take a trip down memory lane thanks to eye-catching artwork on Ward 2 of Walsall Manor Hospital.

Clinical Support Worker Emily Reeves has created frames that feature clothing and other items that remind people of yesteryear. She has created one frame that shows braces, a cloth cap, smart shirt, shaving foam and brush and dominoes while another shows an apron, whisk, hair rollers, pearls, a nail file and a brooch. A third frame contains a ration book and wartime memorabilia.

Emily, who has worked for Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust for seven years after starting as a cadet, said she wanted to make sure patients on the ward had an area that felt like home, rather than a clinical environment.

“One of our patients suggested the items for the apron frame as she recalled memories of her own mother who was always baking and always so nice and neat,” explained the 24-year-old.

“We have spoken to other patients and families about this too and now the pictures are up – in the area where we hold regular tea parties for patients – we’re really pleased. The feedback from patients has been really positive too. The area we use for tea parties encourages our patients to get up out of bed, socialise and interact with others and is an important part of their recovery.  They’re reminded of home, they’re building up their strength by eating and drinking better and this all helps them towards being discharged from hospital.”

Matron Emma Harber added: “We’re so proud to have Emily on Ward 2 as she, and other colleagues, are always trying to think of ways to make a difference to our patients. The artwork may seem a simple idea but it has proved a real talking point and we love hearing the great feedback .”