As part of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week in May, Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s staff and volunteers were invited to enter a photography competition with the theme of nature. The competition forms part of the Trust’s Healing Arts Programme, a national initiative that is part funded by the Ashford and St Peter’s Hospital’s Charity to provide different forms of art that improve both staff and patient environments. The shortlisted photos will be displayed across our hospital sites over the coming months and will eventually find permanent homes on the walls of our hospitals.
Over 200 entries were received alongside reflections of how connecting with nature had helped after a hard day, the enjoyments of a walk shared with family and the value of immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural world.
The overall winner of the competition is Dean Isaac from the Trust’s Sterile Services Department for his image titled ‘Crimson Harmony’. Dean said: “Taking nature photography offers a therapeutic escape from the high-stress hospital environment. It improves mood, reduces anxiety, and provides a calming respite that enhances overall well-being.”
Cat Cooke, Arts and Design Manager and Healing Arts Programme lead said "Looking after our mental health is important. This photo competition has not only shown the creative talent amongst our colleagues, but also how taking time to exercise and enjoy nature can support their wellbeing. We hope by showcasing this art it will inspire others."
Tom Smerdon, Director of Strategy and Sustainability added: “I had the pleasure of being a guest judge on the panel and would like to thank everyone that shared their creativity with us by taking part in this competition. The standard was really high and led to some anguished deliberation, but we have chosen a very worthy winner.”
The photos will be touring our hospitals sites over the coming months to inspire staff, patients and visitors and highlight the awareness of good mental health - St Peter’s Hospital in August, Ashford Hospital in September and in the Bradley Unit at Woking Community Hospital in October. They will then find permanent homes on the walls of the hospitals.
Pictured top: Winning photograph ‘Crimson Harmony’ by Dean Isaac.
