In the aftermath of the tragic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences (FHSS) at PolyU has come together with a resolute commitment to provide sustained care for those affected, reflecting the University’s commitment to social responsibility. This response embodies the essence of community and underscores the strength found in collective action during challenging times.

Immediate action for healing

As the community worked to recover from the incident, members of the School of Nursing (SN) and the Department of Applied Social Sciences (APSS) of FHSS quickly mobilised to offer essential support. In response to the calls for help from the Community CareAge Foundation, teaching staff and nursing students were deployed to the “Good House”, a transitional shelter for the affected. There, they provided necessary support to vulnerable groups, including older adults and individuals with disabilities. Their compassionate efforts were crucial in addressing immediate needs and helping to restore a sense of normalcy for those displaced.

At the same time, FHSS contacted the Primary Healthcare Commission to offer support. The Commission requested a list of PolyU alumni and staff who are registered nurses and social workers willing to volunteer. These volunteers assisted residents experiencing mental stress and needing extra support. 

APSS offers comprehensive training to hundreds of professionals, volunteers, and members of the general public, helping them become familiar with post-trauma support. This is achieved through a series of informative talks led by experienced therapists, counsellors, and APSS staff, where participants gain valuable knowledge and practical skills to support individuals affected by the incident.

Collaborative efforts with key partners

As relief efforts continued, a pivotal partnership with Yan Chai Hospital emerged. This collaboration brought together the expertise of the APSS staff, students and alumni, who offered professional guidance and immediate assistance to residents in need. To enhance the effectiveness of volunteer efforts, PolyU students and alumni underwent training in psychological first aid. This preparation equipped them to serve at the Yan Chai support station in Tai Po, where they provide counselling and practical guidance. Volunteers assisted residents with navigating home reconstruction, arranging temporary care for children, and distributing essential materials.

As residents transitioned to temporary housing, the Advisory Committee on Mental Health of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region launched a programme to aid their adjustment. In response, SN coordinates visits from registered psychiatric nurses, social workers, and occupational therapists, delivering emotional support and health consultations across various districts. This network of sustained partnerships empowered individuals to rebuild their lives with renewed confidence and hope.

A vision for long-term community well-being

PolyU’s ongoing actions reflect a profound commitment to compassion and care, mobilising teams to provide not just immediate aid but also targeted support for those in need. These efforts go beyond surface-level assistance; they represent a thoughtful and heartfelt response to the realities faced by those affected by the fire.

Looking ahead, FHSS aims to broaden its support initiatives, drawing on the multidisciplinary strengths of its community, including nursing, rehabilitation sciences, social work, and related fields. The Faculty is dedicated to creating a robust framework that fosters long-term wellness, ensuring that every voice is heard and every need addressed. Staff members, students, and alumni are invited to share their expertise and contribute to this important mission.

Dr Timothy Lai, Associate Professor of Practice from SN, who was actively involved in the support effort at “Good House”, noted the dual impact of these collaborative efforts. “I noticed an increase in students’ confidence and teamwork. Through working alongside other volunteers and residents, they developed stronger communication skills and a deeper sense of empathy,” he remarked. Such experiences are invaluable in nurturing the resilience and compassion of the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Immediately following the incident, PolyU also consolidated resources across departments and units to support students and staff affected. These efforts included providing temporary accommodation, counselling services, and mental health and emotional support.

In the wake of this incident, the compassion and unity displayed by all involved offer hope and reassurance. Their combined efforts serve as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, a caring and united community can make a meaningful difference.