The Coborn Centre for Adolescent Mental Health in Newham marked a joyful milestone, celebrating the renaming of two inpatient wards during a special event bringing together young people, families and staff.
More than 50 people attended, including psychiatrists, nurses, doctors, occupational therapists, psychologists, family therapists, art and drama therapists, social workers and education staff.
The day showcased the strong sense of community at the Coborn Centre and its commitment to co-production.
Claire McKenna, Chief Nurse, officially cut the ribbons to reveal the new ward names, recognising a piece of work shaped and led by young people through a co-production process.
The project was facilitated by Amira Watson, People Participation Lead, who worked closely with young people to explore how the wards should be named and what those names should represent.
Amira said, "We decided to rename the wards as Nova and Pluto to reflect the young people who are part of the Coborn community."
"Nova represents the shining stars these young people are. Pluto was chosen as a small but mighty ward, like our PICU."
One of the wards had previously been known as the Acute Ward, a name that young people felt increased anxiety and did not reflect the hopeful, recovery-focused environment of the service.
Through group discussions and shared decision-making, young people suggested moving towards names that were more imaginative, uplifting and meaningful.
A young person involved said, "Nova feels much more uplifting than ‘acute’."
"It's more adventurous and fun for the imagination, and it feels good to celebrate something positive together."
The Coborn Centre has three wards - Pluto, Nova and Galaxy - each chosen to reflect strength, hope and recovery.
Speaking at the event, Claire McKenna said, "Coborn is a special place, and there is a real uniqueness in the way it has developed."
"Thank you for inviting me today, I love the work you do here to design services with young people."
The celebration was an opportunity not only to unveil the new ward names but also to recognise the importance of listening to young people, valuing their experiences and creating environments that feel safe, hopeful and empowering.
The day reinforced the Coborn Centre's commitment to compassionate, person-centred care shaped by those who use the service.