Bowmere Hospital, Chester hosted its annual Christmas tree competition this week, bringing together staff, service users and family members for one of the most popular events in the hospital’s calendar.
Organised by Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundations Trust’s Occupational Therapy team, the competition saw wards across the hospital create themed Christmas trees that reflected what was meaningful to them. Alongside the judging, attendees took part in festive games and enjoyed a selection of Christmas treats prepared by staff and service users.
Awards and prizes were presented by Deputy Head of Clinical Service, Louise Northall, and Matron, Laura Jones.
This year’s winning entry came from Maple Ward, a rehabilitation unit supporting people with severe mental illness, for their ‘This Is Me’ tree.
Louise said: “The standard this year was amazing and it was a really tough decision. Maple stood out because their tree was so heartfelt and personal, with each individual including something special and meaningful to them.”
Maple Ward chose the theme to reflect individuality, identity and personal expression. Service users and staff worked together to create a display that promoted inclusion, connection, creativity and valued activity.
Olivia Bartley, Lead Occupational Therapist on Maple Ward, said: “Our ‘This Is Me’ theme was about bringing everyone together, including those who don’t celebrate Christmas. This can be a difficult time of year for some service users, so we hope events like this bring some joy.”
Maria Yuen, Lead Occupational Therapist at Bowmere, added: “This competition really brings people together and boosts morale. It’s lovely to see staff and service users working collaboratively and supporting each other.”
Cherry Ward, a specialist treatment ward for people living with dementia, was announced as the runner-up. Their tree featured photographs of staff and service user’s pets, alongside information highlighting the therapeutic benefits of caring for animals.
Other entries included Beech Ward’s ‘Five Senses’ tree, which highlighted that while Christmas can be a time of joy, it can also feel overwhelming. The tree encouraged people to reconnect with their senses to create calm and grounding.
All of the trees will remain on display throughout Bowmere Hospital for the duration of the Christmas season, spreading festive cheer for staff, service users and visitors alike.
Need urgent help?
If your mental or emotional state quickly gets worse or deteriorates, this can be called a ‘mental health crisis’. In this situation, it is important to get help quickly.
Please call NHS 111 and select the mental health option to talk to a mental health professional. They will be able to support you to get the help/advice you need. The service is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
