Government is proud of its partnership with the Maria Holder Memorial Trust, which continues to bear fruit for Barbadians.
This was underscored today as Acting Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw addressed the grand opening of newly-refurbished buildings, now housing the Occupational Therapy and Therapeutic Recreational Services, at the Psychiatric Hospital, Black Rock, St. Michael.
Acknowledging “the invaluable investment” made by the Trust to enhance the delivery of mental health care and rehabilitation services to the hospital’s clients, Ms. Bradshaw said: “This is not the beginning of the work that the Maria Holder Memorial Trust has been doing in mental health. What we are privileged to witness today is, however, the culmination of a process that started some five years ago with a project proposal by the Hospital, supported by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, for assistance from the Maria Holder Memorial Trust.”
She disclosed that in February of 2019, the proposal was approved, and an official donation was offered by the Trust for the extensive renovation and redesign of the disused buildings. The Occupational Therapy building is now where the old kitchen facility was previously housed, and the defunct Pay Ward is the location of Therapeutic Recreation Services.
According to the Acting Prime Minister, the project to demolish, renovate and construct the two buildings was completed at a cost of over BDS $3.9 million, with $2.1 going towards the Occupational Therapy facility and $1.8 to the Therapeutic Recreation facility.
“I wish to thank the Maria Holder Trust for this very significant investment in the health and well-being of the people of this country,” she stated, noting that the investment places Government in a more advantageous position to respond to, and meet the social and health needs of the most vulnerable populations.
She noted: “We are aware of our recent history when individuals who experienced mental health challenges were shut away and forgotten during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some were stigmatised, denied their human rights, and in many instances abused and discriminated against. Today, however, it is recognised that mental health is integral and essential for achieving good health and the well-being for all individuals and by extension, for the attainment of a healthy nation.”
Ms. Bradshaw also pointed out that with the attainment of good mental health, individuals could fully utilise their unique abilities; manage and respond to the stressors of everyday life; enter into and sustain meaningful relationships with family, community and the workplace; set goals and work individually and collectively towards their attainment; and most importantly, live meaningful and enjoyable lives.
Adding that this also translates into healthy families, communities, and nation, she said it was all in keeping with Government’s mandate to prioritise the mental well-being of all citizens towards helping them to be happier, and better skilled in managing the pressures of life and addressing mental health issues.