The Unit
The Environment
Patients will stay in a single bedroom with shared bathroom facilities. Bedrooms have a wardrobe, bedside cabinet, sink and television. Washing machines are available for use on the ward.
Patients can move freely around the ward but they are not allowed to enter other people’s bedrooms. Patients can also use the communal lounge and dining room and there is a garden for use during the day. Patients will also have the use of our new outdoor gym facility during their stay. If patients have alcohol in their system when they first arrive, they will be asked to remain in their room until their blood alcohol level is zero.
North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust operates a strict no smoking policy so patients cannot smoke on site. We offer nicotine replacement therapy and stop smoking advice and patients can buy vapes from an on-site vending machine.
Personal belongings
Patients should bring their own clothing, toiletries and any money they might need. Patient’s personal belongings are their own responsibility and we do not encourage them to bring valuables. Patients will have their own personal safe in their bedroom to store their belongings.
Upon arrival, a thorough search of your belongings will be conducted by a member of staff in your presence and any medication will be removed in addition to any sharp items or other contraband items.
Please ensure that you bring adequate supplies of anything you need for your stay (such as toiletries or nicotine) as accompanied visits to the shop are subject to the duration of your stay, your physical health, staff availability and approval from the Medic Team and are not guaranteed. If you have family or friends locally then they are welcome to bring items to you at the unit.
Use of mobile phones
Patients may bring their mobile phone with them but please note we have a strict policy on the use of mobile phones and social media. To respect everyone’s privacy and confidentiality, videos and photographs are not permitted at any time on the ward. Mobile phone use is discouraged in communal areas.
Visiting
We recognise the value of family visits and will involve the patient’s family in their treatment plan.
Visiting times are currently:
Monday to Friday: 18.30–20.00
Saturday and Sunday: 15.00–17.00 and 18.30–20.00
Visits should be arranged in advance and visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Visits outside of these times need to be arranged with the nursing team.
Mealtimes
Mealtimes are protected and menus are displayed in the ward dining area. We serve a continental breakfast and a weekly cooked breakfast. We usually receive positive feedback on our food from patients, so we hope all of our patients will enjoy the options.
Breakfast: 08.30 onwards
Lunch: 12.30–13.30
Evening meal: 17.00 –18.00
Different diets and cultural needs can be catered for. Hot drinks are available day and night.