Posted on: 14 October 2025

A vibrant new mural has been unveiled at CNWL’s Harrow Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), transforming the clinic into a warm, welcoming, and inspiring space for young people, families, and staff.

This special project was made possible by the generous support of CNWL NHS Health Charity, whose donation helped bring the idea to life.

Ash tree clinic mural - whole corridor.jpg

Creativity and collaboration in action

The mural was a true community effort, with both young people and staff working together to design and paint a piece that reflects creativity and resilience. The artwork captures themes of hope, growth and connection - symbolising the journey many young people take towards recovery and wellbeing.

A huge thank you to the artist, Olas Art, whose incredible talent and guidance helped turn the young people’s ideas into a beautiful, lasting piece of art that brightens the service every day. A heartfelt thanks also goes to Sonya Lewin, Alezena Parry and Caitlyn Green who contributed their time, creativity and enthusiasm throughout the project. Their support - whether through helping young people take part, assisting with planning, or picking up a paintbrush themselves was instrumental in making the mural such a success.

“We hope the mural will stand as a reminder of what can be achieved when creativity, collaboration, and community come together to support young people’s mental health,” said the Harrow CAMHS team.

Ash Tree clinic mural - Team photo before completion.jpg

A space to feel peaceful and proud

Before the project began, many young people described the clinic environment as feeling clinical and empty.” They hoped that a mural could make the space more welcoming and help reduce anxieties about coming to appointments.

Once completed, the transformation was immediately felt. When asked to describe how the mural made them feel in one word, young people responded with: relaxed, welcomed, tranquil, and peaceful.

They also expressed pride in being part of the creative process, saying it gave them a sense of community and ownership. As one young person shared:
“It's something to look forward to and be able to share input and creative vision into a group.”

Ash Tree clinic mural - dolphins with corridor view.jpg 

Staff reflections

Harrow CAMHS staff have also praised the mural’s impact:

“The mural is amazing and provides such a positive and uplifting feeling to the clinic” 

“It uplifts you the moment you enter the building and puts a smile on your face - a lovely way to start the day.”

“They really brighten the clinic up, and I notice different things all the time. I can’t give enough compliments to do them justice.”

Behind the scenes of the team in action