New artwork at Sunflowers Court mental health unit in Redbridge

A new creative project has turned a once 'bleak' inpatient unit into a colourful and uplifting space, thanks to a collaboration between patients, staff, and internationally recognised artists.

Thirteen artworks now brighten the walls of Sunflowers Court, a mental health facility managed by North East London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT).

The project was delivered in partnership with arts and mental health charity Hospital Rooms.

Sarah Dracass, deputy chief medical officer for mental health at NELFT, said: "This has been a transformative development in the look and feel of our mental health inpatient unit.

"The results have delivered an uplifting environment that encourages thought and discussion amongst us all and brighten the world in a small way.

"We could not have wished for a more dynamic, creative group of artists to work with."

The new artworks fill the hospital café and courtyard and the hospital walls, inspired by themes of home, identity, and collective joy.

They were developed through a series of creative workshops led by Hospital Rooms, which involved both service users and staff.

Participants contributed their ideas and experiences to shape the final pieces, ensuring the art reflects the diverse communities NELFT serves.

A total of 36 workshops were held during the project, with 291 participations recorded.

Hospital Rooms reported that participants rated the inclusivity of the sessions at 9.9 out of 10, highlighting the value of accessible creative expression.

An opening celebration brought together service users, staff, and artists to reflect on the impact of the newly transformed space.

Artists involved in the project included Alvin Kofi, Lakwena Maciver, Mac Collins, Toby Ziegler, Rubbena Aurangzeb-Tariq, and Johanna Harries.

For many, the transformation has been deeply moving and meaningful.

One visitor described the artwork as 'a stunning array of artworks – offering colour and visual stimulation to an otherwise bleak setting'.

Another called the new spaces 'glorious and inspiring'.

Others said the artwork sparked meaningful discussion and helped change the atmosphere of the hospital.

Another said: "The thought, the discussions that come from people gathering and looking at the work.

"Thinking about what the space would be like if the artwork wasn’t there.

"Really makes a difference."

Participants in the workshops also praised the creative process and the professionalism of the artists and facilitators.

One said: "The artist and the facilitator are very professional and took great care to listen and discuss the workshop members’ ideas.

"I thought the final work in the hospital reflected the overall views of those who participated.

"I look forward to future events hosted by your wonderful team.

"Thank you for allowing me to take part."

The service helps people from Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham, Havering and Waltham Forest.

The project reflects NELFT’s commitment to relational care, recognising the importance of the quality of relationships and the environments in which care is delivered.

Niamh White, co-founder of Hospital Rooms, said: "For the past decade, Hospital Rooms has worked alongside artists and NHS mental health services to demonstrate what is possible when creativity is placed at the heart of care.

"Projects like Sunflowers Court show how art can help create environments that feel more welcoming, hopeful and human.

"We are deeply grateful to the staff, service users and artists who helped shape this work."

Hospital Rooms is leading a national charity to make sure everyone has access to arts and culture within mental health services, particularly for communities most impacted by mental health inequalities.