We have officially welcomed our first patients to Water Meadow View. A brand new £32 million specialist acute mental health inpatient facility for adults with a learning disability.
The purpose-built facility based in the picturesque green surroundings of Guild Park in Whittingham, opened this week providing a safe, modern and therapeutic environment for adults aged 18 and over who are experiencing mental health challenges and require inpatient care.
Water Meadow View has been designed to meet the specific and often complex needs of people with a learning disability, offering person-centred, trauma-informed care delivered by a highly skilled multi-disciplinary team. The 14-bed service places a strong emphasis on dignity, and respect ensuring that people are supported in a way that is right for them.
The facility’s name, chosen in partnership with experts by experience and service users, is a reflection of its tranquil, green surroundings which are ideal for mental health recovery.
Amy Shaw, Clinical Lead at Water Meadow View explained:
“Water Meadow View has been thoughtfully designed around the needs of people with a learning disability who are experiencing mental health difficulties. Our focus is on providing compassionate, person-centred and trauma-informed care in an environment where people feel safe, listened to and respected. We work closely with individuals, families and community services to ensure that every person receives the right support at the right time.
Care at Water Meadow View is based on a holistic approach, recognising the importance of physical, emotional, social and environmental factors. The service is underpinned by positive behavioural support where cultural needs are recognised and respected.”
Water Meadow View created over 100 jobs and is staffed by a comprehensive multi-disciplinary team, including medical, nursing, psychological, therapy and peer support roles promoting patients to have choice and involvement in their care and treatment.
Chris Oliver, Chief Executive, added:
“The opening of Water Meadow View is a significant milestone for our Trust and for specialist learning disability mental health services. It is the first of its kind in our area, there is no other specialist NHS offer like this within Lancashire and South Cumbria at present. This investment reflects our commitment to improving care, reducing health inequalities.”
Dr Jenny Shankland, Associate Medical Director for Learning Disabilities, continues:
“We are ensuring that people with a learning disability can access high-quality, specialist mental health support in a modern and therapeutic setting.
It is part of our future vision and commitment to bring people the support they need closer to home and their social connections, which we know is vitally important for those with mental health illnesses but in particular for those who also have a learning disability.”
Water Meadow View’s official opening ceremony will take place later this month and will be attended by the Mayor of Preston, NHS England and wider colleagues. Peer Support Workers and experts by lived experience who were involved in many aspects of the interior design including lighting choices, paint colours, artwork and menus will also be in attendance to cut the ribbon and unveil the naming plaque.
