UNC Health Rockingham proudly announces the completion of its Safe Space Courtyard, a transformative outdoor space designed to support the mental and emotional well-being of long-term behavioral health patients. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to commemorate the opening of the courtyard, which marks a significant milestone in the hospital’s commitment to compassionate, innovative care.
The Safe Space Courtyard was funded in partnership with the Reidsville Area Foundation through a $54,000 capital grant. The Courtyard is located within the hospital’s interior and offers a secure, open-air environment where patients can experience the healing benefits of nature. The space is thoughtfully designed with calming colors, ADA-compliant furniture, an inspiring mural, and a new awning for year-round use. Renovations also included enhanced security features, upgraded safety flooring and the addition of a resource cart with age-appropriate engagement activities for patients to utilize during their time outside.
“This courtyard provides our behavioral health patients with dignity, hope, and a vital connection to the outside world,” said Thresa Hardy, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Nursing Officer at UNC Health Rockingham. “We are deeply grateful to the Reidsville Area Foundation for recognizing the importance of this project and partnering with us to bring it to life.”
The ribbon cutting event brought together hospital leadership, Reidsville Area Foundation representatives, and community members to celebrate the collaborative effort that made the courtyard possible. The space is now open and operational, offering a much-needed respite for patients who may face extended stays due to statewide behavioral health placement shortages.
“We are proud to partner with local organizations, like UNC Health Rockingham, to improve the health and well-being of residents in our community,” said Reidsville Area Foundation Executive Director Dawn Charaba. “We believe that the innovative solutions developed to provide respite for patients through the Safe Space Courtyard project can serve as a model for other rural health care facilities to implement similar patient care areas.”
In addition to the courtyard, UNC Health Rockingham has received further support from the UNC Health Rockingham Foundation and the UNC Health System to enhance behavioral health services. This includes funding for Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) training for teammates and certifications for instructors specializing in autism spectrum disorder and mental health intervention.
The Safe Space Courtyard stands as a testament to UNC Health Rockingham’s ongoing mission to provide access to equitable, patient-centered care and to address the unique needs of rural and marginalized communities.
