Wellbeing Wednesday’s promoting staff selfcare at Cygnet Bury Hudson
The latest session was centred around autumn-themed wellbeing activities. Staff were invited to take part in a variety of seasonal creative activities, providing an opportunity to step away from clinical demands, focus on the present moment, and engage in mindful, enjoyable tasks. Alongside these activities, participants were able to enjoy a selection of healthy snacks and seasonal treats in a relaxed and welcoming environment that encouraged informal connection with colleagues. The session concluded with a 15-minute guided mindfulness exercise, allowing staff dedicated time to switch off, decompress, and recharge before returning to their duties. To further support wellbeing beyond the session, staff were also provided with a range of self-care resources and information that they could access and use in their own time, encouraging the continuation of healthy wellbeing practices within and outside of the workplace.
Charlie said: “Self-care and wellbeing are particularly important within forensic mental health services, where staff routinely work in complex, demanding, and emotionally challenging environments. Professionals are often exposed to high levels of risk, distressing histories, challenging behaviours, and the ongoing responsibility of maintaining both therapeutic relationships and security requirements. Over time, these pressures can contribute to stress, fatigue, burnout, and compassion fatigue if opportunities for rest, reflection, and recovery are not prioritised.
“Promoting staff wellbeing is therefore not simply a benefit for employees but an essential component of delivering safe, effective, and compassionate care. When staff feel supported and have opportunities to engage in self-care, they are better able to manage workplace stress, maintain emotional resilience, make considered clinical decisions, and sustain positive therapeutic interactions with service users.
“Protected wellbeing initiatives also help foster a positive workplace culture, encouraging staff to feel valued, connected, and psychologically safe. Ultimately, investing in staff wellbeing supports both individual health and the overall quality of care provided within forensic services, contributing to a healthier, more resilient workforce.”
