A new ward for children and adolescents with mental health issues has opened at the Priory’s world-famous Roehampton Hospital in south-west London.
The facility, which marks an investment of nearly £1m and creates 20 new jobs, will help to address the shortage of mental health treatment options for a group which struggles most: teenagers.
Roehampton Hospital as a whole has undergone a £6m refurbishment since 2018 and is rated as ‘good’ throughout by the Care Quality Commission.
Amid concern that social media, education pressures and family breakdowns are fuelling a growing mental health crisis among younger generations, NHS emergency departments are inundated with young patients experiencing mental health crises.
And parents and families looking for intensive therapy and round-the-clock care often worry because they can’t find the right treatment.
The new ward is, therefore, a much-needed resource for young people and creates a safe environment where the team aims to build a rapport with each young person and support them through treatment and recovery.
It will treat a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, self-harming, school phobia and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
Dr Hamilton McBrien, child and adolescent psychiatrist and Mmedical director for specialist NHS services at the hospital, said: “The ward is going to make a significant difference to people’s experience of treatment at a time when they are feeling most vulnerable.
There is a severe shortage of mental health facilities for children and young people
“Over half of all mental health disorders start before the age of 14 and accessing treatment and care early can significantly help a person’s recovery.
“Our team is proud to be involved in the opening of a new ward for private patients, allowing more young people fast access to appropriate mental health treatment, care and support.”
