Specification challenges in mental health examined

We do not need to have hung onto every word of the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement last November to be fully aware that there are still severe problems in the country’s finances. With our health services facing increasing levels of demand from a growing and ageing population, budgets are under constant strain and review. Add to that the higher expectations that we have of our healthcare systems, and we can see that funding is going to remain a long-term challenge.

In the midst of these financial issues, there is a clear commitment from the NHS to bring about ‘parity of esteem’ between physical and mental healthcare services. For too long, mental healthcare has been the ‘poor relation’, but public opinion, high-profile campaigns, increased awareness, and the cold, hard facts of the costs to the economy and society are beginning to turn the tide.

Even though the perception of mental health issues may be changing, there is still a long way to go in the understanding of the importance of the physical environment to successful patient outcomes. The design and construction of mental healthcare facilities present particular challenges. Some facilities are excellent. Organisations like the Design In Mental Health Network (DIMHN) are seeing their innovative ideas and approach deliver real tangible benefits. Other facilities are a long way from the ideal. Quickly adapted, or pressed into service from a totally different purpose, they contribute little to the therapeutic environment. More worryingly, they can even be dangerous for those at risk of self-harm. Between the two extremes are the situations that try, but miss the mark. Sadly, some thought or foresight is often all that is needed to make significant improvements – improvements that could save money, reduce staff workloads, and improve patient safety.