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

Immediate response and on-site support

In the days following the fire, members of the School of Nursing (SN) and the Department of Applied Social Sciences (APSS) of FHSS promptly mobilised to offer essential, on-the-ground assistance. Responding to a call for help from the Community CareAge Foundation, teaching staff and nursing students were deployed to the “Good House”, a transitional shelter for the displaced residents. There, they provided essential support to vulnerable groups, particularly older adults and individuals with disabilities. Their compassionate efforts were crucial in addressing immediate needs and helping residents regain stability and re-establish daily routines.

In parallel, FHSS engaged with the Primary Healthcare Commission to extend professional support. PolyU alumni and faculty members – registered nurses and social workers – volunteered at the shelters, providing mental health counselling and comprehensive support to those recovering from trauma.

Reflecting on the experience, Dr Timothy Lai, Associate Professor of Practice from SN, shared, “I witnessed an increase in students’ confidence and teamwork. Working alongside other volunteers and residents, they developed stronger communication skills and a deeper sense of empathy.” Such experiences are invaluable in nurturing the resilience and compassion of the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Collaborative efforts with partners for sustained care

As relief efforts continued, the PolyU team joined hands with Yan Chai Hospital, bringing together the expertise of the APSS staff, students and alumni, and Yan Chai’s social workers. They recently established the Yan Chai Rest Station in Tai Po to provide community-based support. In addition to counselling and emotional care, the station offers nourishing herbal soups and healthy floral teas, as well as rehabilitation equipment lending services and recreational activities. These thoughtful initiatives not only address residents’ practical needs but also help them relieve stress and regain emotional balance in the aftermath of the fire. Volunteers continue to stand by the affected families, offering companionship and guidance as they gradually rebuild their lives with renewed hope.

Prof. Eric Chui (left) and Mr Johnny Ip (right), a PolyU alumnus and Manager of Yan Chai Hospital Social Services Department, offered their professional support at Yan Chai Rest Station.

At the same time, in response to the Advisory Committee on Mental Health of the Government of the HKSAR’s initiative to residents transitioning to temporary housing, SN coordinated visits by registered psychiatric nurses, social workers, and occupational therapists to various districts. These outreach visits ensured consistent emotional and physical health support beyond the immediate aftermath, empowering individuals to recover with resilience and renewed confidence.

A vision for long-term community well-being

PolyU’s commitment extends beyond immediate relief — it is a long-term objective to foster community resilience. APSS has launched a series of post-trauma support programmes, offering training to professionals, volunteers, and members of the public. Through informative talks led by experienced therapists, counsellors, and academic experts, participants learn to provide effective, compassionate support to those impacted by such incidents.

Professor Eric Chui, Head of APSS and Chair Professor of Social Work and Criminology, remarked “PolyU stands ready to connect expertise across healthcare, nursing, and social services. By drawing on the University’s collective experience and compassion, we aspire to support those affected not just in the short term, but throughout their journey of rebuilding and recovery.”

Looking ahead, FHSS will leverage its multidisciplinary strengths to establish a sustainable framework for community wellness and invites staff, students, and alumni to contribute to this mission.

In the wake of this tragic 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, enduring difference.