The programme would like to extend its heartfelt congratulations to all of our trainees who graduated at Lancaster this week. We were also delighted to see so many people at our post-graduation celebration and unveiling of the artwork created in memory of Dr Julie Davies. We were delighted to host Julie's family who collected her doctorate during the graduation ceremony and shared some moving words with us all.

The artwork was commissioned in memory of Dr Julie Davies, a much-loved and respected member of the 2016 Lancaster Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, who sadly died during her training. Julie was a passionate advocate for service user involvement and empowerment. In recognition of this, local artists who identified as users of mental health or learning disability services were invited to submit examples of their work. Artist Ros Smears was chosen to produce a piece of art based on her beautiful portfolio of photographic digital collages, embroidery, and painting.

Ros was asked to create an image based upon Julie’s favourite colours, flowers, and places. Her aim was to create a peaceful place where Julie and those that knew her might sit to reflect and remember. Ros included a bumblebee to symbolise life and an arbour of flowers to protect and shelter those seated below.

The artwork will be displayed within the new Health Innovation Campus at Lancaster where the DClinPsy will be based from April 2020.

Once again, congratulations to all our new Clinical Psychologists – hopefully we will see you all again soon!