This week, Bowmere Hospital embraced the spirit of Christmas with a festive tree-decorating competition that brought together service users, staff, and family members. Each ward showcased their themed Christmas tree in the Oasis Café, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration with festive drinks, cakes, and games.
Organised by the Occupational Therapy team, the event culminated in an awards ceremony where prizes for the best tree and runner-up were presented by Bowmere’s Matron, Aoife Coyne, and Practice Development Nurse, Laura Jones.
Matron Aoife Coyne shared her thoughts on the event:
“We were blown away by the talent and thought that went into each Christmas tree. The decision to pick a winner was incredibly difficult. The detail and care in every design were extraordinary, and it was heartwarming to see service users from all wards come together to foster a sense of community and celebrate Christmas in such a meaningful way.”
The winning tree, themed ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ was created by Cherry Ward, which provides specialist treatment for people with dementia in West Cheshire. The tree’s theme drew inspiration from the era of the ward’s patients, making it particularly meaningful.
Amy Edisbury-Williams, Occupational Therapy Technical Instructor (OTTI) and part of the winning team, expressed her delight:
“We are so thrilled that Cherry Ward’s tree won the competition. ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ resonates with our patients’ generation, and we had so much fun brainstorming and bringing the theme to life.”
The runner-up was Willow Ward’s ‘Paddington Tree,’ which showcased origami crafts and marmalade sandwiches.
Maria Yuen, Lead Occupational Therapist (OT) and part of the Willow Ward team, shared:
“The Christmas tree event started during lockdown and has grown year on year. The creativity surpasses expectations every time. This year, service users truly enjoyed the process of baking, crafting decorations, and decorating the tree. It’s been a joyful and therapeutic experience for all involved.”
The Eastway Ward team, which supports people with learning disabilities, won the People’s Choice Award for their ‘Sensory Christmas Tree’, featuring decorations designed to be appreciated through the different senses. The team aimed to highlight how understanding sensory needs can make Christmas celebrations inclusive for everyone.
Other themes included; 'Heroes Tree' by Juniper Ward, highlighting service users’ personal heroes, a 'Grinch-Themed Tree' by Maple Ward and 'Appreciation Tree' by Beech Ward, celebrating gratitude and kindness.
The trees will remain on display throughout Bowmere Hospital for the Christmas season.
