“Colleagues throughout the mental health services in the South Tipperary area, whether in residential or community settings, prioritise the welfare of those we care for and support,” according to Aisling Carroll, Activities Co-ordinator, Haywood Lodge. She spoke as residents and clients participated in and won prizes during recent Summer Show outings.

“The provision of activities programmes, such as in Haywood Lodge, are therapeutic in themselves – whether it's music, art, gardening or any other form of recreation. Time and again, we see how people who might otherwise face challenges in partaking in some pastime or social situation, find it encouraging and rewarding to be involved in the activities we promote.

“We have visiting artists and other guests here in Haywood that add to our activities programme and we’ve always been able to facilitate day excursions. In recent years, however and with the support of HSE management locally and regionally, we have been delighted to develop a connection between Haywood Lodge and the Summer Shows. Going to the likes of the Bansha, Clonmel and Dungarvan Shows is something the residents look forward to. What an addition to the experience it is, however, to see our arts and crafts and horticultural produce there – and to be rewarded with prizes and accolades. Taking part in the in-house programmes is a source of fulfilment and enjoyment to residents but the winning of prizes for what they shape is such a boost.”

In recent weeks, at the Dungarvan Agricultural Show in Co Waterford, residents from Haywood Lodge claimed the first prize trophy in the Arts and Crafts section for a cross-stitch embroidery entry. During their trip to the show, attendees were also delighted to see that tomatoes and aubergines grown by them in the poly-tunnel shed in Haywood’s garden also earned first prizes in the Produce section. A scarf knitted by Haywood residents and lettuce grown by them were also prize winners.

Participation in the Clonmel Show held earlier in July and the upcoming Bansha Show in August are among the highlights of the activities programme for residents.  They also take part in cookery and art classes and projects.

Opened in 2012, the purpose-built Haywood Lodge is comprised of 2 units (East and West House), each containing 20 en-suite bedrooms. The East House is for residents under the care of the HSE/South East Community Healthcare’s South Tipperary Psychiatry of Later Life team. The West House is a dedicated Rehabilitation and Recovery unit. All resident bedrooms and living spaces in Haywood Lodge are built around 2 internal courtyards. Each bedroom has an external door that leads directly to a garden area.