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Lesemang Matuka

 
Weskoppies
Hospital in collaboration with the Hospital Board initiated a Night Walk as
part of a Fundraising project towards Patient Recreation.  


The
Night Walk involves the History of Psychiatry in South Africa; the history of
the Weskoppies Hospital, historical landmarks on the 150 hectare grounds and a
visit into the National Museum areas.  This
also includes a trip to the tour with a clear view of the Pretoria CBD
lights.  


The aim
of the Night walk is to embrace and empower the community on Mental Health issues
and to lift the stigma around Mental illness as such.  More than 140 community members received the necessary
information on Mental Health according to the Mental Health Care Act and how to
deal with a Mentally unstable person in the community or at home.


The
project started on the 22st November 2019 and continued every Saturday evening
thereafter with great expectations from the community and high interest. 


The
walk also includes a ±7km walk to enhance their energy levels and to embrace on
their wellbeing while the history is being told.


This
hospital proudly announces an average waiting time of 12 min at the Pharmacy with
an OPD headcount of approximately 424 patient per week.


Through
the interaction with the community they feel free to talk about their
challenges at home and get advise on the way forward.  Community is empowered as ambassadors of the
hospital and receives an ambassador badge to wear with pride.