A creative way to capture the journey
To reflect their experiences, young people and staff co‑designed a visual “Decider Skills Journey” poster. Using The Lifejacket Metaphor, they created:
- Rocks and small islands made from tissue paper, representing the challenges young people face
- Lifejackets placed wherever Decider Skills had been learned or used
- A sailboat symbolising the YPU moving forward together, supported by shared skills and understanding
The artwork captures how the unit feels like a safe place—held by nurses, doctors, therapists and family/carers who are learning and using the same skills alongside the young people.
Positive impact across the whole community
Young people, families and staff have shared strong, consistent feedback about the difference The Decider Skills are making in real‑life situations. The skills have helped:
- Young people feel safer and more supported
- Staff communicate more effectively and consistently
- Families and carers understand and use the same language and tools
- The whole unit work together with a shared approach
The journey has strengthened connection, confidence and emotional regulation across the YPU community.
Our Decider Skills Journey
Click here to see enlarged journey poster
Dudhope Young Peoples Inpatient Unit NHS Scotland, April 2021
Dr Vicki Dunbar, Consultant Clinical Psychologist & Carol Morgan, Carers Support Worker
Client Group - 12-18 years old, their family/carers and NHS staff