A mental illness charity has created a colourful mural to brighten up a children’s ward at the Royal Free Hospital.

The artwork was created by service users and volunteers from Jewish Association for Mental Illness (JAMI) in Golders Green as well as London-based artists.

Entitled Super-violet Dreamscape, the six-metre-long piece was designed to create a more welcoming environment for young patients, their parents and hospital staff.

Artist and JAMI volunteer Sara Karin Fisher said: “We wanted to make sure the young patients at the hospital were involved in the design of the mural, so we offered drawing and colour workshops for patients who wanted to attend.

“Often, they face lengthy stays on the ward so it was important to us to find out what they would like to see.

“Recent research has shown that artwork in hospitals can increase wellbeing. Engagement with art can also improve mental health and reduce levels of anxiety, stress and depression.”

The mural contains snapshots of London including Big Ben and the London Eye.

Trish Luck, matron of paediatric in-patients, said: “The mural has brightened up the children’s ward and will be appreciated by all of our young patients.”