‘Bold ambitions’ supported by new website

DIMHN chair, Jenny Gill, explained: ‘The volume of useful information available to members and others operating in the mental healthcare arena has increased markedly, especially in the past 2-3 years. We felt it was time for a new, more contemporary website with a wider range of content and enhanced functionality. We hope this new resource will support the vision of the Design In Mental Health Network, provide members with valuable information, and encourage other organisations who share our passion for improving mental healthcare environments to join and thus contribute their expertise and knowledge.” 

Established several years ago by concerned mental health practitioners, the DIMHN is an inclusive organisation that uses the skills of academics, clinicians, engineers, architects, estates managers, Trusts, service-users, and business, to promote an understanding of the critical importance of design in the sector. By collaborating and promoting best practice, the Network is delivering change to a wide spectrum of facilities, and helping to promote improved patient outcomes.

Jenny Gill added: “The DIMHN is much more than a ‘talking shop’. It is active in research, development, and education, and provides product testing facilities for manufacturers. It promotes an annual conference and exhibition, and is establishing links with overseas healthcare providers to promote the exchange of learning. In our vision, mental healthcare takes place in environments that bring hope, and which are comfortable, therapeutic, and appropriate. We are making progress, but want to do much more. This website can only cover part of our activities, but we believe it will establish us as the place to go for anyone concerned with the mental health built environment. We welcome all visitors to the site, and input from all interested parties.” To learn more about the DIMHN’s activities, or to get involved, please visit www.dimhn.org