Ward support groups shortlisted for national quality improvement award

14 Jul 26

A ward support group initiative has been recognised nationally after being shortlisted in the Allied Health Professions in Quality Improvement (AHPQI) TREE Awards.

The nomination recognised the work of occupational therapists and Experts by Experience (EbEs) who have developed and delivered ward support groups across our inpatient units.

Illustration of a healthcare professional sitting in a chair taking notes while talking with two people seated opposite in a person-centred discussion or assessment setting.

Ward support groups were developed in response to feedback from service users, who said they would value gender‑specific, safe spaces to talk openly and discuss issues that were important to them. The project began with the development of an idea for a dedicated men's peer support space on Oak Ward. This then led to a similar model being developed for women. On female wards, this included space to discuss topics such as periods, hormones and women's health.

From the outset, the groups have been co-produced, combining occupational theory with Experts by Experience drawing on their lived experience to help create a space where people can share experiences, support one another and build a stronger sense of community while in hospital. Sessions are designed to be inclusive and they are also proving to be a valuable way for service users to raise concerns and suggestions, helping wards to make improvements based on direct feedback.

Plans are now underway to roll the model out more widely across our Acute and Urgent Care services.

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Ward support groups shortlisted for national quality improvement award