Water Meadow View, our new specialist mental health service for adults with a learning disability in Guild Park, was officially opened during a special event held on Wednesday 28 January.
The celebration brought together colleagues from NHS England, Lancashire and South Cumbria’s Integrated Cared Board (ICB), the Mayor of Preston, Sue Whittam and Trust colleagues, marking an important milestone for specialist learning disability mental health services across Lancashire and South Cumbria.
The event was opened by Chief Executive, Chris Oliver and Chair, David Fillingham, who warmly welcomed guests and shared the vision and inspiration behind Water Meadow View, as well as the hopes for the future of the service. They spoke about the importance of creating a modern, therapeutic environment that puts people with a learning disability at the centre of their care and supports recovery close to home.
Clinical colleagues also talked about how the service and care was developed to offer the best for patients, families and carers and included some of the positive differences they are already seeing from patients in their care.
The building was officially opened by Claire Umpleby and Dr Shubulade Smith CBE, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Claire, an expert by lived experience who, along with others including learning disability groups, worked closely with the team throughout the development of Water Meadow View. Claire’s involvement helped shape key aspects of the service, including colours, lighting and food ensuring that the environment and care model reflect what truly matters to people who will use the service.
Claire was joined virtually by Dr Shubulade Smith CBE, Shubulade shared her thoughts on the new service explaining:
“This is pioneering, it is co-designed by those with lived experience. This is state of the art, it is the first in the region, but it sets the bar for what mental health services across the country should aspire to be. I cannot wait to see what you are going to be able to do for people able to provide them with excellent care that's close to home, that's appropriate in a good environment.”
Speaking after cutting the ribbon and declaring Water Meadow View open, Claire said:
“I’m so happy to be opening Water Meadow View today, it has been very close to my heart and it is special to see it finished, I’m very proud of my work.”
Guests were invited to tour the unit, gaining first hand insight into the thoughtfully designed spaces and tranquil surroundings. Refreshments were served and attendees viewed a short video showcasing the vision, values and benefits of Water Meadow View, highlighting its person-centred and trauma-informed approach to care.
Water Meadow View is a purpose-built 14-bed service located within the green surroundings of Guild Park in Whittingham. Designed in partnership with experts by experience and service users, the facility provides a safe, dignified and therapeutic environment for adults aged 18 and over with a learning disability who are experiencing mental health challenges and require inpatient support.
Speaking at the event, Chris Oliver, said:
“The official opening of Water Meadow View is a proud and meaningful moment for everyone involved. This facility represents our commitment to listening to lived experience, reducing health inequalities and delivering high-quality, specialist care in environments that truly support recovery. It was wonderful to celebrate this achievement with our partners, colleagues and the people who helped shape Water Meadow View from the very beginning.”
Water Meadow View has already welcomed its first patients and is staffed by a skilled multi-disciplinary team, creating over 100 local jobs. It is providing compassionate, holistic care that recognises the importance of dignity, choice and involvement in every aspect of treatment.
