Saint Lucia: New Beginnings Transit Home introduces relaxation room

Castries, Saint Lucia: The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment of Saint Lucia announced that a ‘Relaxation Room’ was constructed for employees at the self-care treatment at the New Beginnings Transit Home.

According to the Ministry, this is the ultimate relaxation room. Guests are treated to breakfast and lunch of their choice, with the usual amenities of a spa, and a massage is accommodated— under aroma scents, soft lighting, bedroom slippers, shower area with a robe, and paintings made by cardboard sketches.

The home is a safe haven for children between the ages of 0 – 18 years who are victims of child abuse, severe neglect and who are in need of care and protection, the Ministry informed.

“The work is hard, it is challenging, but we do it because we love it. In terms of saying to the staff I see you, I appreciate what you do, I know it’s hard, take a while, take a break. That is what the spa is; take a break, let us take care of you,” noted Bernice Francis, Deputy Manager at New Beginnings Transit Home.

The Ministry stated that at the end of every month, employees contribute $5 to keep this initiative going. The money collected is used to pay for a masseuse and to aid with the purchasing of items during the Spa day treatment. Francis disclosed that this gesture aims to support staff who may feel demotivated due to stressful environments, which may affect their quality of work.

“It’s very hard to balance work and life, and when you have a demanding job and you have a very difficult life. When you put the two together, this person is under a lot of stress and pressure, and so in any way we can, what can we do to relieve some of those stresses and stressors? So you walk into work, and you don’t just feel that this negative place you are coming to is taking away your joy,” the Ministry stated.

Donald Raymond is responsible for transporting staff and clients of the Transit Home. He details a memorable spa experience. “When I got that, I wanted to sleep the whole day. It was the best feeling and treatment a man can have.”

The Ministry stated that this spa initiative has produced positive results in the working environment for the New Beginnings Transit Home, an institution under the auspices of the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment, and the deputy director revealed that it has increased teamwork in the department as everyone comes together to ensure that team members have an enjoyable experience on their special day.