Replica bus stop at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital to create a 'familiar scene' for those with dementia

The surprise new addition in the corridor outside Ward 21 and Ward 22, is an innovative solution thought up by staff, to provide patients with dementia, a 'familiar scene' when wandering off the wards.

Karen Breese, dementia clinical specialist, is hoping the mural will encourage patients to stop and wait, giving staff time to come and collect them.

She said: "When patients living with dementia become confused and agitated they tend to walk off the wards and will often look for something which looks familiar. The bus stop is just that.

"It can also be a great place for patients to escape the noise of the ward for a few moments and where they can sit and talk in an environment with other patients or their families."

And Gary Francis, manager on Ward 21, said: "The work that we have been doing has been a huge team effort and has already made huge improvements to the way that we operate and the care that we can give to our patients.

"It is really encouraging to see the staff proactively volunteering to lead improvements and own projects – everyone is playing a part and together we are making a difference.

"These interventions are proven to prevent emotional escalation, and reduce anxiety, and are a great example of adapting what we do to meet the holistic needs of our patients."