A REHABILITATION unit designed to help mental health patients regain independence and confidence before moving back into the community is poised to relocate to a modern and more spacious ward at Sandalwood Court.
Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust’s Windswept ward, based in Old Town, will transfer to the state-of-the-art campus on Highworth Road on Tuesday.
The current unit in a three-storey and 10-bed Victorian house had become cramped for staff and users, who had to use their dining room for activities as well as meal times and some therapy sessions.
The new ward boasts an extra four bedrooms, which will be made available to other mental health services within the trust or others further afield.
Dedicated therapy, activity, reflection and family rooms have also been created.
Being on the same site as an acute unit, the Applewood ward, will ensure that staff receive the support needed to take on new patients with more complex needs.
It is hoped the move will also allow for a much smoother transfer of users from acute care into rehabilitation.
All patients and staff had a say in the design of the new and improved Windswept, from the choice of furniture to the colour scheme and wall decorations.
Tori Mitchell, deputy ward manager, said: “Our building didn’t meet requirements and we didn’t have bedrooms on the ground floor. It did feel homely but here we tried to make everything feel as relaxed as possible and moved away from a clinical atmosphere. We chose patterned bedding and furniture that looks very domestic.”
Patients spend an average of five months at Windswept before moving back into their own homes or supported accommodation.
As part of the major changes at the unit, an occupational therapist will also join the team of 20 support workers, nurses, physiologists, doctors and cleaning staff.
A flat, complete with a kitchen, will also be available for users in the last stage of rehabilitation to encourage them to cook for themselves and live independently again while still benefitting from the help of staff if necessary.
Ward manager Judith King said the new set-up would be even more conducive to recovery.
“The ward is for people with severe and enduring mental health issues who have been transferred to Windswept from an acute or secure unit. We help them regain their confidence and skills.
“When people stay in hospital people cook for them and give them their medication and get them to become independent to cook for themselves and care for themselves, improving their self esteem via meaningful occupation like volunteering in the community.
“There will be a lot more space for everyone now and it will help them on their journey to recovery.
“We are very excited about the move.”