An army veteran whose artwork brings happiness to patients across our Trust has spoken of the importance of co-creation in his wellbeing journey.
Long-time involvement member Bob Etherton, 81, told guests at a co-creation community day organised by our involvement and engagement members and team in York last month:
“Being part of TEWV has restored and helped build my morale and confidence – two important aspects of human nature. It has made me a member of the Trust team.
“I am accepted for who I am. My voice is valued, and my opinion taken into consideration. It also gives me a wider appreciation and understanding of the people and the work involved.”
Military and teaching background
Bob was born in 1944, four months before D-Day, and grew up in post-war Kent. At just 15 he enlisted as a junior soldier – as it paid twice as much as a paper round.
He went on to serve as special operator in the Royal Corps of Signals, and, while in junior service, he was pipe major in the regimental band.
Bob’s military career took him around the world, earning him a commission in 1982. After retiring as a major in 1992, he trained as a teacher – spending two decades in education.
In 2015, following a tragic experience, he became TEWV inpatient – but drew on his military background, the love of his family and the help of Trust staff to find a road to recovery.
“My five weeks as an inpatient were a kaleidoscope of experiences through the prism of mental illness,” said Bob, who lives near Ripon.
“But all experiences contribute to learning. There can be positive outcomes from even the most difficult situations, no matter how insignificant they seem at the time.”
New experiences bring fresh hope
Just six months after his hospital stay, Bob was asked if he would like to become an involvement member with the Trust – to help develop services for people in the future.
He agreed to “give it a try” and, over the past nine years, has taken part in workshops, focus groups, meetings, interview boards, recruitment drives and presentations.
“As a soldier for some 33 years, I know how important confidence and morale are. From day one in the army these were built and reinforced into the individual and the team,” he said.
“But those who have experienced mental health issues know how these aspects can fly away when we go down into the negativity of a psychotic episode or other debilitating illness.
“Becoming an involvement member was the beginning of me regaining these two vital mental building blocks. It has contributed so much towards my wellbeing journey.”
Why co-creation is important
He added: “I’ve participated in many co-creation activities, each one different and many quite mentally challenging, and this has helped me to overcome my fears and apprehensions.
“The co-creation team can provide reassurances to boost your morale, and confidence -especially when things become difficult, challenging and the learning curve steep.”
- Do you know someone – a patient or relative – who might like to become an involvement member with our Trust? Email [email protected] for further details.
