Grace To, a Mental Health Support Worker at Response, has shared how tailored around-the-clock care for those living with schizophrenia, brings out the best in people.
Grace has been based at our Iris Hayter House service in Littlemore for four years and has opened up about her role to mark National Schizophrenia Awareness Day (July 25).
Schizophrenia affects approximately one per cent of the UK’s population. The condition is a chronic mental health disorder with symptoms including delusions, hallucinations and disorganised thinking.
Although there is no cure, professional treatment can help those affected in their long-term recovery and managing day-to-day tasks. In extreme cases, 24-7 access to care is necessary.
Grace’s route into her role here at Response, was inspired by her grandparents, who she grew up with.
“When people grow old, they need our help,” said Grace.
“As I’ve developed a greater understanding of the challenges older people living with mental health conditions face, it’s made me want to support them.
“People diagnosed with schizophrenia can feel incredibly isolated because they are fearful and do not know whether what they are experiencing is real life or delusion.
“It’s our job to help them lead a normal life where they can thrive in a supported environment and feel part of a community.”
Grace said group trips out, seated exercise, watching films together and art and craft sessions all play a critical role in injecting a purpose into the lives of those who live with schizophrenia.
Grace is also a qualified music therapist, and uses genres such as jazz, rock, folk and classical to help people overcome and manage issues which are personal to them.
Grace added: “We provide that purpose into people’s lives who without our care and attention would have very little to live for.
“I often relate it back to what brings enjoyment into my life outside of work. If you were to remove my ability to meet friends or take a walk in nature, that would significantly detract from my quality of life.
“As mental health support workers, we’re simply here to help those living with schizophrenia and other mental health conditions to lead a normal life, which I believe everyone is entitled to.
“Music is a great bridge to help people achieve non-musical goals and can boost physical health, movement and social interactions.
“I see faces light up when we start playing. It helps people to reminisce and really express their feelings.
“It’s a genuine privilege to help people who need our support in this way and call it a job.
“When people consider schizophrenia, I’d urge them to think of what is possible for people who live with the condition instead of excluding them completely from what we’re accustomed to in a society.”
One person Grace works closely with is Anthony, who has lived at Iris Hayter House for several years.
The 78-year-old said support he receives has helped him feel happier, more connected and confident.
He said: “Being at Iris Hayter House has reduced my feelings of loneliness because I’m surrounded by likeminded and supportive people.
“Response provides me with as much support as possible. We’ve even been to Hayling Island for a holiday which was great fun.
“There is one thing I want to do still, though, to see Taylor Swift in concert. I think she’s great! I love singing and play the piano too, Waterloo by ABBA is my favourite song.
“All of the above helps create a great environment for us to live in.”