New purpose-built ward opened at Stratheden

The new Hollyview Ward at Stratheden Hospital will cater for those experiencing acute episodes of mental illness, providing specialist care and treatment at a time when patients are at their most vulnerable.

The eight-bed facility sits on the north-eastern part of the hospital grounds and replaces the Intensive Psychiatric Care Unit (IPCU) which was previously housed in one of the Victorian buildings on the hospital site.

Construction on the £4.4m project began in May 2015 with patients past and present playing a pivotal role in the design of the new unit, identifying many of the key features which made their way into the finished build.

The design also provides significant clinical benefits which support recovery and shorten the length of hospital stay.

Individuals who are cared for in the new facility have access to an art and music room, a group therapy room, gym and a relaxation area, which creates a better environment and allows staff to deliver the therapies which aid patients in their rehabilitation.

The facility also enables greater privacy than was afforded within the previous unit, where there were shared bedrooms. Individuals will now each have their own single bedroom with en suite shower room, enabling greater privacy and offering a tranquil space should time alone be required. A central courtyard also offers a considerable outdoor space to exercise or to relax and enjoy some fresh air, which was lacking in the previous unit.

Ms Watt said of the new Hollyview Ward: “Purpose-built, specialist facilities like this provide an invaluable service for some of our most vulnerable individuals.”