NHS charity funds mural for mental health unit garden

Thanks to donations, Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, has been able to fund a mural for the garden walls in St Caradog Ward at Withybush Hospital.

The murals were created by Lloyd the Graffiti Artist, a Pembrokeshire artist who has been painting since 1998 and has become renowned for encapsulating Pembrokeshire history and natural beauty in his work. Using spray paints, he creates unique series of paintings and has worked closely with local schools and youth organisations throughout the county.

Aileen Jakeman, Occupational Therapy Technician, said: "We are very grateful that charitable funds have enabled us to fund Lloyd to create the fantastic artwork.

“The murals have completely transformed our garden. Colour can have such a powerful impact on our moods, feelings and behaviours, social studies have shown that colours created in the right environment can have positive impact on health and mental wellbeing.

“The artwork can now benefit our service in many ways: distraction when a patient is overwhelmed by anxiety, a talking point when dealing with emotions and depression, and a peaceful environment for group work and socialising.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”