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Extensive renovations create a safer, more therapeutic environment for children receiving mental health care in Slemani
Slemani, Iraq – Kurdistan Save the Children (KSC) has successfully completed a comprehensive renovation of the Children's Ward at Shahid Hemn Psychiatric Hospital, enhancing the facility to provide a more healing and supportive environment for young patients. The initiative focused on improving both infrastructure and therapeutic spaces, ensuring that children receive care in a setting that promotes well-being and recovery.
According to Dr. Ramyar Rahim, Health Coordinator at KSC, “The outcomes of the recovery journey are more promising when it occurs in a safe, comfortable and supportive environment, as studies have shown that such settings reduce stress and enhance emotional well-being, leading to better recovery.”
“The Shahid Hemn Psychiatric Hospital serves as a home for many children and individuals with various conditions, such as intellectual disabilities, behavioral issues, autism, Down Syndrome, delayed speech, social anxiety, isolation and those who have experienced trauma due to war, displacement, sexual assault or unfortunate incidents. It also provides hope to parents who are unsure how to overcome the challenges their children face,” he says, adding, “Our aim was to create a non-clinical atmosphere that serves as a space for counseling, examination, diagnosis, providing guidance and bringing hope to both children and their families.”
The renovations included:
- Revitalized Exterior & Interior:
The entire exterior and interior of the Children's Ward were freshly repainted and refurbished, creating a brighter, more welcoming space for children and their families.
- Radiation Hall Transformation:
The hall was cleaned, reorganized and divided into two private rooms with new flooring, plastering and modernized doors, improving patient privacy and comfort.
- Structural & Electrical Upgrades:
The roof was completely replaced with concrete, the lighting system was repaired and energy-efficient bulbs and triple-opening windows were installed for better illumination and ventilation.
- Climate Control Enhancements:
Two new air conditioning units were installed in the renovated rooms, and central air systems in the corridors were repaired to maintain a comfortable temperature.
- Therapeutic Atmosphere:
Over ten large, family-friendly and calming murals were installed to foster a peaceful environment that supports emotional healing.
- New Equipment & Furnishings:
The ward was equipped with updated office supplies, furniture and essential medical tools to improve functionality and patient care.
- Enhanced Privacy & Security:
New separators were constructed between floors to ensure children’s privacy and create a more secure treatment space.
- Comprehensive Clean-Up & Organization:
The entire department underwent a deep clean and reorganization to maintain a hygienic and orderly setting.
This renovation represents a major step forward in improving mental health care for children in the region. KSC remains committed to providing vulnerable children with safe, nurturing spaces that foster healing and recovery.
About KSC
KSC is a non-profit, non-political and non-sectarian organization that provides assistance to children regardless of race, gender, political or religious affiliation. It operates through four essential programs: Child Protection, Education, Health and Youth Ability Development as well as emergency relief during disasters.
KSC’s main aim is to work directly or indirectly to ensure a better future for children by improving and providing their various medical, social, economic and educational needs.
KSC was co-founded in 1991 by Hero Ibrahim Ahmad and Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmad, currently First Lady of Iraq.
For more information
Contact: press@ksc-kcf.org
Visit our website: https://www.ksc-kcf.org/
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