A winning idea from Navigo’s 2024 Projects of the Year scheme has now come to life and it’s already making a meaningful difference for young people accessing local mental health services.
Inspired by the success of NHS Talking Therapies room transformation, Navigo’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), also known as Young Minds Matter, has redesigned one of its therapy rooms into a low‑stimulus, sensory‑friendly environment. The space is tailored to support neurodivergent young people, or those with identified sensory needs, who may find a traditional clinical setting overwhelming.
Designed with young people and not just for them, the final result is a warm, adaptable and welcoming room that feels worlds away from a standard therapy environment.
The idea was selected as one of the standout Projects of the Year back in 2024, an initiative that invites staff and community members to pitch ideas they believe could improve mental health services locally. The most popular projects are chosen by Navigo members, with up to £10,000 of funding provided by our official charity, the Gardiner Hill Foundation.
Young people played a central role in the project and were involved at every stage, shaping the vision, design, and atmosphere of the room. They selected the colour scheme, furnishings, accessories and the fabric for the curtains. They also helped choose the LED lighting options that give the room its calming glow.
A creative art competition invited service users to submit designs, with the winning pieces now displayed proudly in the space.
A multi‑sensory space to support emotional regulation, the new room includes a thoughtful range of sensory tools designed to help young people regulate their emotions and feel grounded during sessions. Items include:
- Weighted blankets and comfortable reclining chairs
- Fidget toys and varied textures
- Bubble lights to support breathing regulation
- Cooling and warming aids
- Aromatherapy oils
- Grounding treats such as mints, sweets, hot chocolate and flavoured teas
- Noise machines and soft lighting
- A comforting “breathing koala” tool
The accessories were selected specifically to engage all five senses (sight, sound, touch, smell and taste) helping young people feel calmer, safer and more in control.
Importantly, the room remains flexible. Cosy, removable curtain panels and portable therapeutic lighting allow the space to transform seamlessly between a regular therapy room and a low‑stimulus retreat.
Mahlah Smith, Senior Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing Practitioner said: “It’s been a privilege being able to work in partnership with some amazing young people to co‑produce this therapeutic space. It is already a massive hit with everyone who has been lucky to access the room and it’s great to have an inclusive and safe space to be proud of.”
With its thoughtful design and genuine co‑production, the new sensory-friendly room represents a meaningful step forward in creating inclusive, person‑centred mental health environments - shaped by young people, for young people.
Accessing Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (Young Minds Matter)
Getting a young person the help they need can feel like a scary thing to do.
But it's important to reach out as early as possible so they can get the support they need.
Parents and carers can't directly refer a young person to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. But you can speak to a professional, such as a GP or teacher, who can refer on your behalf.
You can find out more about the process here.
If you have any questions, you can contact the team by calling (01472) 252570. Please note this phoneline is monitored from Monday to Friday between the hours of 9am and 4.30pm.