Making a difference: The impact of your support – Annual Report highlights

This year, your donations and fundraising efforts have enabled us to fund a variety of projects that directly benefit both patients and staff. Some key initiatives include:

• Community chaplaincy support: With a £100k grant, we launched a pilot project that expanded chaplaincy support to patients receiving care in the community. Chaplains offer emotional and spiritual care and help people connect with other sources of support in the community.
• Allotments for recovery: A £10k grant was allocated to create therapeutic gardens at Moorland View and Meadow View wards in North Devon. These gardens offer patients recovering from mental health challenges a space for physical activity and reflection, helping to prevent social isolation.
• Staff wellbeing initiatives: Thanks to the NHS Charities Together Recovery Grant, we’ve strengthened our staff support services by creating a Head of Colleague Wellbeing role, establishing a network of Health and Wellbeing Champions, and promoting healthy lifestyles. This investment ensures that our staff are well-supported, which translates into better care for patients.
• Therapeutic activities at Franklyn Hospital: Charitable funds have enabled us to introduce animal-assisted therapy and drumming sessions for older adults with mental health needs. These activities provide emotional comfort, promote social interaction, and have a positive impact on patients’ recovery.
• Renovating patient spaces: Your contributions helped us transform the waiting area at The Laurels Gender Identity Clinic, turning it into a welcoming, calming space. This simple change has made a significant difference to patient experience.