Silverwood: Reflections and Next Steps

The original team behind the design and build of Silverwood Mental Health Inpatient Service has now wrapped up their work, with the building officially handed over to the operations team. With that milestone reached, attention is
turning to how Silverwood is working for the people it was built to support.

In May, Wendy from our Coalition Mental Health team visited the wards to hear directly from patients about their experiences. The overall feedback on the building itself was encouraging – people spoke positively about the bedrooms, appreciating their spaciousness, ample storage, fresh air from the windows, and individual temperature controls.

The open-plan lounge and dining areas were well received by most, although a few people said the space felt a little too open, leaving them feeling exposed at times. The ward gardens got positive reviews, and those who had used the
sensory suite said it was a real help.

However, some issues were raised—particularly around the availability of therapeutic activities. At the time of the visit, there were staff shortages in the therapies department, meaning limited opportunities for hospital
residents. New staff have since joined the team, and more activities should now be available.

Several people spoken to didn’t know about the on-site gym, music room, art therapy room, or multi-faith room – and expressed frustration that they hadn’t had the chance to use them. Wendy was also involved in co-chairing the Lived Experience Group, which met regularly throughout the project to involve service users in shaping Silverwood’s design.