As proud supporters of the NHS, we appreciate any opportunity to show that support - especially when it means talking directly to staff and sharing their excitement at the launch of the new unit! 

These wards, operated by the Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (LPFT), cost £25 million and cater to adults in mental health crises. Together, they provide 38 ensuite bedrooms, community spaces, and outdoor areas for patients. This initiative is part of a comprehensive plan to modernize facilities in Lincolnshire, offering single ensuite rooms and eliminating outdated shared dormitories. 

The wards were designed collaboratively with patients, staff, carers, and former service users. While there, we were treated to a tour of the ward, where they pointed out so many features they were particularly proud of. 

• The ground in the outside area is soft rubber to minimise injury risk.
• Each bedroom is fitted with a media centre, allowing access to TV, music, games; as well as communicating with staff. 
• The seating and colour scheme was put through a rigorous process, rated by staff and previous service users, taking several factors into account.
• The outside area has over a hundred plants, planted by hand.
• Large windows in all areas, including bedrooms, allowing for lots of natural light. 
• Each bedroom will have its own safe, to keep valuables secure.
• The art on the wall is designed to encompass grounding techniques (such as spotting all the hidden hot air balloons!)

Their focus has been on service users throughout the design of the project, communicating with people with lived experience to gain useful insight. 

As part of this project, the team has also been working with the University of Lincoln’s School of Creative Arts to create mindfulness artworks for the courtyard areas.

Associate Professor Rachel Baynton from the University, comments:

“It’s been wonderful to support our students to work with current patients and LPFT staff, and to really see the powerful connection between art and wellness. We’re delighted with the results of this collaborative process and hope the artwork in the courtyard helps people for many years to come.”

In celebration of the opening, a time capsule of artwork has been buried, intended to be opened by future patients after a century.  

The LPFT team has also been recognized with the Best Service User Engagement Award and nominated for Mental Health Design Project of the Year at the Design in Mental Health Awards.