Oxford Health’s brand new ‘Meadow Unit’ building is taking shape at the Warneford site and you can take a look at the progress inside and out here 

And while all the construction work is going on, there’s another band of people gearing up to help raise money to provide additional things that will make the PICU (psychiatric intensive care unit) a truly welcoming, relaxing and therapeutic environment for patients and families.

Oxford Health Charity and the PICU team have been working together to identify how the spaces in the unit can be further improved to make the most difference to the young people staying there.

The aim is to boost the range of activities young people can get involved with, enhancing their experience of being in the unit and provide them with additional therapeutic spaces.

There are four main areas of focus for the charity appeal:

• Gym – creating a separate room for the young people within the garden for them to exercise away from the main ward space
• Sensory Room –a bespoke sensory space to give the young people time out – this will be particularly important for young people with autism and other sensory-related concerns
• Garden – enhancing the green space with raised beds for gardening projects, garden activities and weatherproof seating
• Art – creating unique pieces of art with the young people at the PICU and the Highfield to be displayed in the unit and garden areas

Work is already underway with some of the arts projects to identify how these will take shape within the unit and local artists have been commissioned to work alongside the young people to bring their ideas to life.

Julie Pink, Oxford Health Charity’s Head of Charity and Involvement, said: “Colleagues from Oxford Health have already started to make plans to raise money themselves, which is wonderful.

“We know that more people will come forward and either raise money themselves, sponsor someone or make a donation direct.

“We are also keen to hear from any local businesses who would like to contribute time or goods that will help towards the overall goal of making this an extra special care facility for young people.”

You can read more about the appeal and find out how to donate here.