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Public to Be Asked for Views Over Pounds 37m Secure Mental Health Unit

Posted on: Monday, 3 October 2005, 06:00 CDT

Health bosses will launch a public consultation today over proposals for a new mental health unit in Birmingham.

A pounds 37 million unit near Heartlands Hospital on the former Yardley Green Hospital site in Bordesley Green would improve mental health services across the West Midlands. The proposal is for a secure unit to house 75 to 85 male patients, many of whom are currently cared for outside the region away from family and friends

Patients who would benefit from care in this kind of "medium secure" unit may be suffering from severe mental illnesses such as depression and schizophrenia.

Others may also have complex needs such as poor physical health or learning difficulties. In comparison with other general mental health inpatient units, this facility would be run by a high level of specialist staff and have extra security.

Entrance and exit from the building would be controlled 24 hours a day, while outdoor recreation areas will be surrounded by a perimeter fence.

All 30 primary care trusts in the region support the plans, prepared by the West Midlands Specialised Services Agency. Karen Helliwell, the agency's director, said: "The Yardley Green site has been chosen because it is closest to those parts of the West Midlands with the greatest level of need, while also benefiting from being close to other mental health, primary care and hospital services. This site is derelict at the moment. We want to hear what local people think about our proposals and answer any concerns that they may have. Their views will be taken into account

Source: Birmingham Post; Birmingham (UK)

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