Have a Say on Mental Health Centre Plan

Proposals for a new mental health centre on a former hospital site in east Birmingham will be discussed with the public for the first time this week.

A pounds 37 million facility near Heartlands Hospital, Bordesley Green, would create a secure unit for between 75 and 85 men.

Located on the former Yardley Green Hospital site, it would provide a local base for many of these patients who are currently treated outside the West Midlands – up to 100 miles away from their homes.

The first meeting, as part of a public consultation exercise, will be held at 12.30pm on Thursday at St Paul’s Centre, in Belchers Lane, Bordesley Green.

Each of the region’s 30 primary care trusts (PCTs) support the proposals prepared by the West Midlands Specialised Services Agency (WMSSA).

Karen Helliwell, WMSSA 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 hospitals services.

“This and other meetings are just one way local people can voice their opinions on the proposals. Their views will be taken into account before any decision is finally taken on the project and we want to hear from as many local people as possible.”

Public consultation continues until January 16, 2006, and two further meetings will be held at Small Heath Methodist Church on November 16 and at Saltley Secondary School, on December 14.

Patients who would normally require care in a medium secure unit, may have severe mental illnesses, such as depression and schizophrenia, and may also have other needs including poor physical health and learning difficulties.

The proposed unit would have an increased level of specialist staff, as well as enhanced physical security.

If finally approved, the unit, which would be managed by Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Trust, would open in 2009 Consultation documents can be obtained from www.msuwm.org.uk or by calling 0800 051 0302