Their vision was to create a relaxing space for staff to take some time out and reconnect with each other, whilst raising funds for the very important cause.
The cafés and reception bake sales at Cygnet Hospital Sheffield have raised a whopping £645.17 so far. In the days leading up to the events, patients and staff spent hours enthusiastically baking all kinds of treats from the very popular Biscoff Cheesecakes to the classic English Scone. The team also pulled out all the stops to create an inviting and uplifting atmosphere.
Staff participants shared how they were “transported somewhere calm” for a moment and dreamed up future coffee mornings to come together over homemade bakes. Amongst the cake stands and china teacups, the table was abundant with conversation prompts, wellbeing reminders and inspirational books.
Participants were also invited to reflect on the ways they boost their own wellbeing and post these ideas anonymously into the Spencer’s Cottage Teapot. The comments that were put in the teapot were then used by the two patients to create the briiliant poem below.
Brewing Joy
Retreating to a garden blooming with song,
I am dipped in nature’s greenness.
A call to the woods from a tribe of love,
Following carved paths patterned by seasons,
Reminds me of the phenomenal opportunities each day reveals.
Returning to an old log fire,
Seeking comfort,
The warmth of snuggling up with family and stories with cockapoo, Nola.
The invite of bubble rich water,
I escape into words, bingeing true crime, romance, #MAFS –
There are no guilty pleasures!
Candlelit, I raise a glass of wine toasting this week’s gratitudes.
Singing at the top of my voice,
Riding familiar melodies and beats,
Amongst a crowd of strangers,
Losing time to the embroidered sound of my guitar.
In my room at 3am,
Dancing wildly like no-one is watching.
Stillness.
Turning off my phone.
Silence.
I close my eyes,
Tracing paintings of colour impressed upon a canvas of dreams.
Stress flows away beside my companion of fur.
These moments just to be…
Our cups filling with unconditional love.
The patient organisers would like to say a massive THANKYOU to all staff and patients who helped to bring this vision to life and to all the people who baked at home, donated and joined them for a cuppa or two. Special thanks to the Spencer Ward Therapy Team, Ward Manager and Becca, the amazing Baking Queen.