At The Park, we support adult men with complex mental health needs, including those affected by substance use and past trauma. Our care is led by clinical expertise, shaped by trauma-informed approaches, and built on strong teamwork with other agencies. In this blog, our Clinical Lead Nurse Bongi offers a closer look at the day-to-day leadership behind our service, from supporting frontline staff and upholding clinical standards, to working in partnership with commissioners and social workers to ensure safe, consistent, and person-centred outcomes. Whether you’re exploring placement options or just wanting to know more about our services, this chat with Bongi highlights the depth of clinical practice and team integration that underpins everything we do at The Park.
Can you describe your role at The Park and how it fits into the wider team?
“As the Clinical Lead Nurse at The Park, I oversee the delivery of high-quality, person-centred care to adult males with complex mental health needs, often compounded by substance misuse. My role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including clinical audits, staff supervision, infection control, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. I work closely with external agencies such as commissioners, social workers, and healthcare professionals to coordinate referrals and ensure effective transitions of care. Within the team, I serve as a clinical mentor and a key point of escalation, supporting both the operational and therapeutic aspects of care delivery. My role is integral to ensuring that care is consistent, and tailored to each resident’s needs.”
How does trauma-informed care influence your work and the overall approach at The Park?
“Trauma-informed care is a core principle guiding our practice at The Park. Many of our residents have histories marked by significant trauma, which impacts their mental health, behaviour, and substance use. We prioritise creating a safe, non-judgmental, and empowering environment where individuals feel heard and respected. This approach informs everything, from how we structure daily routines to how we respond to behaviours of concern. As Clinical Lead, I ensure staff are trained, and I model these values in my own practice, promoting reflective supervision and encouraging staff to see beyond behaviours to understand the underlying trauma.”
What’s the biggest change you typically see in individuals during their time at The Park, and what factors help achieve this?
“One of the most profound changes we see is an increase in stability, emotionally, behaviourally, and sometimes even physically. Many residents arrive with little trust in services. Over time, as they experience consistent care, therapeutic relationships, and structured routines, they begin to engage more positively with staff and peers. Factors that help facilitate this change include a strong multi-disciplinary team approach, a stable and compassionate care environment, personalised care planning, and an emphasis on empowerment and choice. Seeing individuals start to rebuild their sense of self and regain hope is one of the most rewarding aspects of our work.”
What’s one thing you wish professionals considering placements at The Park knew about our clinical support and team approach?
“I wish more professionals knew just how robust and integrated our clinical support is. We work as a cohesive team where communication is open, and every member, from support staff to clinicians is encouraged to contribute to care planning and decision-making. We’re not just managing symptoms; we’re supporting individuals on a holistic journey of recovery. The environment is collaborative, with a strong emphasis on shared learning, continuous improvement, and trauma-informed practice. We truly value partnership with external stakeholders and pride ourselves on offering a responsive, flexible approach tailored to each individual’s needs”
At The Park, we know that real progress happens when clinical structure and compassionate support go hand in hand. Through strong relationships, with residents, staff, and external professionals, we’re able to create a stable, responsive environment where individuals can begin to rebuild. Whether you’re considering a placement or looking for the right step-down setting, our team is here to work closely with you to deliver the best outcomes for every individual. If you’re interested in making a referral, or finding out more, please contact our referrals team at [email protected]
