A PIECE of artwork designed to help people with neurological conditions has left locals inspired at Barnsley Hospital.

Inspired by a suggestion from the trust’s deputy director of nursing, quality and professions Amy Hartley, staff on the neurological rehabilitation unit have created a ‘tree of life’ - a mural-style piece of artwork depicting a tree with strong roots and bright blooming leaves.

The tree of life helps service users to visualise something which represents life and the various elements that make it up - something which is significant in people with a brain injury.

Anne Massey, a returning staff nurse who recently retired from her post as clinical lead nurse on the unit, took on the challenge of giving the tree roots and bringing it to life.

The first branches of the tree came from a young patient admitted to the unit for rehabilitation after a brain injury.

To Anne’s surprise, when she came back to work after a few days off, two other patients had also added to the tree.

Associate director for nursing and professions Sophie Hempsall said: “The tree of life is a lovely addition to the ward.

“All the patients’ messages can be seen by other patients and their families, who can take comfort from people who are at different points in their rehabilitation and recovery journey.”