Users of an art mental health therapy department at Calderdale Royal Hospital have hit out over fears it may close.
The department, run by the South West Yorkshire NHS Partnership, helps people suffering with mental health issues use art as a long-term coping strategy.
Norah Hamill, who has accessed the service, says she feared for the department’s closure when written notice of compulsory redundancy was given to both its two therapists over Christmas.
She said: “For me, the department has been a lifeline.
“This would effectively cut the whole service.
“The department provides long term therapy to many people, the only other therapies are short term quick fix alternatives.”
Norah, of Holmfirth, said: “Short term therapies are the equivalent of putting someone unable to walk in a wheelchair for six weeks then telling them to walk at the end of it.”
The department also helps those who have experienced childhood trauma.
Karen Taylor, District Director for services in Calderdale and Kirklees said: “We are currently reviewing our services to make sure they provide good value for money and are fit for purpose .
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“In the current economic climate we have to make sure services are as efficient as possible and deliver the best possible outcomes
“As a part of this, we are reviewing our Art Therapy service in the Calderdale area.
“These are proposals at this stage and no final decision has been made.
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“We will continue to support service users in looking at their care plan if further needs are identified and staff will also receive support to find an alternative role should these proposals go ahead.
“Creativity is a central part of how we deliver mental health services.
“We have a number of creative therapies, including our award winning Creative Minds programme, which have been supporting and co-funding projects to deliver creative activities and approaches including theatre, sports, sculpture and nature to help people on their road to recovery.”
