Health worker returns to unit that saved her life

A mental health worker who has returned to work at the unit that cared for her as a child said she hopes to show patients "there is a future beyond hospital".

Holly Hawken said she would "always be indebted" to those who helped her at the St Aubyn Centre when she was 14, having been diagnosed with an eating disorder.

The Colchester-based site is part of the Children's and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), run by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust.

"They saved my life and I carry those memories with me," the 28-year-old said.

She first went into CAMHS' care as a teenager and was diagnosed with anorexia and later borderline personality disorder.

Hawken works on Larkwood ward, which supports young people with very serious, complex and urgent mental health needs.

"By being here, I can show them that there is a future beyond hospital, that they can survive this and go on to live full lives," she said.

Her role involves helping inpatients to return to education, participate in activities and build their confidence for the future.

Hawken described life on the wards as "busy and emotional", but one that was worth working in.

She added: "Seeing young people improve, even in small ways, makes everything worth it.

"Watching someone get well enough for discharge and start building a life for themselves makes any bad day feel tiny.

"I've worked towards this for over 10 years, both professionally and personally, and I feel incredibly lucky to be here."

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