A fresh start for adolescent unit
Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust's Gardener Unit in Prestwich is making a ‘fresh start’ after a new building was op
ened, providing 10 beds for young people with serious mental illness.
The Gardener Unit is one of a number of medium secure adolescent forensic units across the country providing highly specialised care in a secure environment. The unit contains 10 beds and is for boys between the ages of 11 and 18 years.
GMMH's Trust board made it a priority to improve the facilities and provide a better living environment for the young people receiving care.
The development has re-provided a bedroom corridor and living space in light, airy and spacious surroundings. There is also a tranquil, landscaped outside area.
The bedrooms are modern, with ensuite bathrooms and desks to enable young people to study.
There are a host of communal and private areas to create a less formal atmosphere and calming lighting is aimed at helping relieve stress.
The décor was developed in partnership with servicer users and after workshops and brain-storming sessions, bespoke artwork was created by a local artist based on suggestions from those staying on the unit.
It is hoped the new surroundings will help the service achieve its aims to maximise young people’s hopes about their futures, enabling them to develop safe independent living and promoting opportunities for positive achievement.
Left to right: John Walker, GMMH Deputy Director of Operations, Rachel Green, GMMH Network Operations Manager, Shamine Hall, Gardener Unit Service Manager, Navdeep Malik, CAMHS Consultant and Paul Roper, GMMH Network Operational Manager.
