For many years, the High Dependency Unit (HDU) within Starship’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Haumaru ōrite, was not fit for the needs of the young people receiving care there. The environment felt clinical, stark and institutional at a time when patients and their families needed spaces that promoted calm, safety and healing. Feedback from young people, families and staff consistently highlighted the urgent need for change.
The refurbishment project, known as Calming the Wairua, has transformed the HDU into a welcoming, therapeutic environment designed with input from young people, families and staff. Every aspect of the redesign was carefully considered to create a space that reflects the values of the service and supports mental wellbeing. Natural colours, calming artwork, cultural design elements and thoughtfully planned spaces now help young people feel more settled, connected and supported during some of the most challenging times in their lives.
The impact has been immediate. Staff describe the transformation as one of the most meaningful projects they have been involved in, bringing the physical environment into alignment with the compassionate care provided every day. Most importantly, young people and their families now have a space that better supports healing, recovery and hope.
This remarkable achievement was made possible through the generosity of supporters including Four Winds Foundation. This support has made a real difference to the journeys of countless young people.
Looking ahead, there are plans to extend this vision into the wider service, creating the same sense of calm, safety and purpose throughout the open unit, ensuring even more young people benefit from an environment designed to support their wellbeing and recovery.
