Publish date: 22 May 2025
Staff at a mental health ward in Bristol are introducing a new initiative to strengthen connections with service users.
Cromwell Ward at Wickham Unit, Blackberry Hill Hospital has introduced the Safewards 'Know Each Other' intervention. It helps to create a supportive and trusting environment by providing service users with an opportunity to learn more about the staff involved in their care.
As part of the intervention, ward staff and service users share non-sensitive, personal details about themselves which are then displayed in accessible areas within the ward. For service users, this approach offers insight into the human side of those caring for them, making interactions more approachable and relatable.
The approach aims to make service users feel more at ease, enhance communication and support their overall experience during care and recovery.
Olivia Owusu-Antwi, Cromwell Ward Manager said: "The 'Know Each Other' intervention has brought a sense of belonging and created an environment where our service users and staff can find areas of common interest and build faster therapeutic relationships."
Mark Earl, Safewards Lead at the Trust, added: "This intervention builds trust and rapport and makes the experience for service users being in hospital less traumatic while empowering them to be actively involved in their care and recovery, so they develop insight and self-awareness."
Many AWP wards have pioneered this approach, paving the way for similar interventions to benefit service users across other healthcare environments.
About Safewards
The Safewards model is an evidence-based framework focusing on improving relationships and safety in healthcare settings. Its strategies aim to foster positive interactions and reduce conflict.
For further information, please contact Mark Earl, Safewards Lead on mark
