Forensic Mental Health - BeDigital Week 2024

As part of BeDigital Week 2024, the Forensics division highlights how a donation through the Trust’s Health Stars charity has introduced a cutting-edge Cardio Wall to inpatient settings. This digital innovation offers a modern, interactive solution to provide cardio workouts in compact spaces, transforming the way physical activity is incorporated into therapeutic care.

Physical activity is a proven tool for reducing anxiety, depression, and low mood while boosting confidence and overall wellbeing. However, implementing exercise programs in secure mental health settings often faces limitations of space, resources, and patient engagement. The Cardio Wall addresses these challenges with a blend of digital technology and gamified exercise, making workouts engaging and accessible for all fitness levels.

The Cardio Wall is a portable, interactive fitness system that combines physical and cognitive games to encourage movement, improve focus, and promote emotional regulation. Its digital features include:

· Customisable programs to suit individual fitness levels.

· Interactive LED targets for reflex training and cardio challenges.

· Mobility, allowing it to be used indoors or outdoors for variety.

By integrating physical activity with interactive digital experiences, the Cardio Wall makes fitness enjoyable and relevant, helping patients overcome barriers such as low mood, fatigue, or lack of confidence.

To demonstrate its versatility, a Cardio Wall will be set up in the reception area of Trust Headquarters in Willerby on the second day of BeDigital Week (10am – 1pm). Staff can “have a go,” experiencing firsthand how this technology transforms exercise into an engaging activity for mental health recovery.

Forensic inpatient services, including the Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), have embraced the Cardio Wall as a therapeutic tool. Staff have observed multiple benefits:

· Emotional regulation: Patients use programs like boxing glove interactions to manage frustration or stress.

· Social connection: Friendly competition fosters camaraderie and strengthens social bonds.

· Versatility: Patients of all abilities can participate, making fitness accessible and inclusive.

“Many of our patients face challenges with exercise due to mental health conditions or medication side effects,” explains Nigel Hewitson, Service Manager for Forensic Inpatient Services. “The Cardio Wall breaks these barriers, combining fitness with fun through its interactive digital design.”

Activity Coordinator Jordan Hepworth said, “The Cardio Wall offers not only a fun and engaging activity but also a calming effect. Its portability even allows us to move it outdoors, providing fresh-air workouts when weather permits.”

Thanks to Health Stars, two portable Cardio Walls were funded to serve multiple inpatient units across the Trust. This aligns with the charity’s mission to provide "the little extras" that brighten patients' experiences and enhance their health and wellbeing.

Health Stars relies on community support to bring innovative tools like the Cardio Wall to life. By donating or fundraising, you contribute to enhancing the care of thousands of individuals using the Trust’s services every day.