We spoke with Sue from the activities team at Willowbeck, who told us about the ways in which the Happiness Programme is used with the residents there. Willowbeck supports adults living with a range of complex care and health needs arising from brain injuries, dementia, neuro-disabilities and physical disabilities.

She told us they frequently use the Interactive Projector, at least 3 or 4 times a week, on multiple surfaces; floors, ceiling, walls, tables and beds. 

“We use it everywhere and anywhere. Anywhere residents need it.”

Some of the favourites amongst residents include football games on the floor or air hockey for more able bodied residents, the quizzes, bingo, fruit basket and the relaxing breathing exercises with scenery, great for elevated mood and calming down residents who get distressed. 

“Anything they can move around and interact with they find really fascinating. The Happiness Programme is really good for varying abilities and different illnesses.”

Sue told us about one gentleman she works with, often using the Happiness Programme. She told us he has Cerebral Palsy, depression and anxiety and can get distressed and upset. When distressed, they have previously had to administer PRN medications and he refuses food and drink. Sue tells us within a few minutes, he settles down when using the Happiness Programme, with the firework game being his favourite. At least once a week, she uses the Projector with him and tells us it’s even reduced the PRN medications he may need. Once he is settled, this also helps him to eat, drinks and take his medication. When he isn’t distressed, he’ll ask to play with it too. 

“He loves it. Within a few seconds, he settles down.”

Another gentleman Sue cares for has a severe brain injury and doesn’t interact much. Sue uses the Interactive Projector with him in his wheelchair and he moves his arms to pop balloons, or splatter paint. She says he likes the bright colours and although at first they thought it may have been involuntary movement, you can tell he tries to reach out and partake in the activities.

“You can see the recognition in his face”

When asked about how the Happiness Programme has helped her in the activities team, Sue told us about how brilliant the Interactive Projector is for a wide range of people, created a more fun environment for service uses and having a more enjoyable time because of the new experiences made possible with the variety of games available. 

“The Happiness Programme has made life easier and fun, and makes service users happy which makes the team happy!”