Need Help? Occupational therapist Victoria Nelson recalls how baking sessions helped Luke learn important skills that would lift his confidence when he left their care. “He helped us bake cakes for a charity cake sale. He was the best helper I’ve ever met!“
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Luke says the experience has helped all aspects of his life. “I can do more stuff for myself, cook my own food and I’m happy with the carers I live with. I’m in touch with a lot of my old friends and we’ve patched things up. I enjoy going to the pub and I see my mum, who has always been there for me.” Martin shares his and Luke’s strategy for stressful times: “Luke compared me to a parrot because I’d constantly talk about things that would help him cope, so much so that he bought himself a toy parrot to remind him of my advice!” Luke smiles. “The STAR Unit staff made me realise there are people in my life, like my mum and friends, who do care. The feelings I have about myself are still there, but not as bad. If I don’t like something I usually put my headphones on – and I still have the parrot!”
The STAR Unit The STAR (Specialist Treatment and Recovery) Unit where Luke received his care assesses and treats people with learning disabilities who also have a mental health issue. Formerly at Mossley Hill Hospital, it recently moved to Rathbone Hospital, where patients have their own en suite bedroom, a ’Snoezelen’ sensory room, spacious activity areas and outdoor space with a games area.
New self help guides for a wide range of mental health issues now available to download for iPhone, android and windows phones. Find out more at merseycare.nhs.uk
STAR Unit Manager Kevin Tarpey: “Our patients are some of the most vulnerable, they often need one-to-one observation and specialist care. The new unit is well equipped for the work being done here by our fantastic multi-disciplinary team for people like Luke. His story makes our job all the more worthwhile.” * Snoezelen rooms are specially designed to deliver stimuli to different senses using lighting effects, colour, sounds, music, scents, etc.
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