New Hospital Boosts Mental Health Image

A new £19 million mental health hospital, tasked with providing cutting edge treatment and transforming UK perceptions of mental health hospitals, has opened in Glasgow.

{mosimage}The new 117-room Gartnavel Royal Hospital will “transform” inpatient care, as well as changing people’s ideas regarding the NHS treatment of mental health, with its modern and innovative approach, according to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.

Anne Hawkins, director of the hospital, said: “We wanted to create something special which would radically improve the environment for our patients and staff. We also wanted to break down barriers and remove some of the stigma associated with mental health hospitals.

“Patients and their families have been involved in shaping the layout and design of the building right from the beginning and our staff also visited mental health hospitals in other parts of the UK,” she explained.

The hospital has six separate wards, three for adults, two for the elderly and an intensive psychiatric care unit. It also offers clinical and therapeutic services, such as a patient gym and a family area for patients with visiting children.

“This new hospital will challenge these misconceptions and prove that mental health hospitals can be bright, attractive and welcoming,” said Ms Hawkins.