'It's a pleasure to see it .. .off the screen and in the actual space.  I'm really happy to hear that the staff and kids are enjoying it.'

Artist in Residence Tom Cross, reflected on his work with the team to create the new mural at Townlands urgent care facilities this morning, as he officially opened the newly decorated paediatric room with Angie Fletcher (Deputy Chief Nurse), Angela O'Neill (Senior Clinical Lead, Urgent Care) and Angela Conlan (Oxford Health Arts Partnership Lead).

The mural has been created with the support of Oxford Health Charity as part of an ongoing project to bring local imagery and colour to the patient environments across the Trust.  Tom's Townlands mural features several recognisable Henley landmarks and activities as well as a few creative additions like a jolly pirate, submarine and our very own Oxford Health Charity hot air balloon. 

Angela O'Neill commented that the mural 'reflects the community of Henley on Thames, is a bright addition to the space and that it's been well received by the whole team.'

The urgent care team were all involved in shaping the mural's design and are now making use of the variety of characters and items on display when caring for young people within the room.  While young people wait for treatment or during their assessments, the team can encourage them to seek out items within the mural to keep them engaged.  It is a useful tool for staff if assessing for the impact of a head injury and it also acts as a good distraction for those young people who might be a little worried or anxious within the unit.

'It really sparks the imagination, providing an inviting environment to occupy children and young people where they can hunt for fish, ducks or flags whilst waiting to be cared for'

Angie Fletcher

Tom has previously created murals in Abingdon Minor Injuries Unit and Wallingford Community Hospital with the same approach - taking local inspiration and combining it with the ideas of staff and patients to create a truly unique, engaging and welcoming set of images.  

To support more projects like this, you can support our Arts in Healthcare appeal by making a donation or undertaking a fundraising challenge.