What age range of service users do you accept?
We accept adults from the age of 18 years and over. There is no upper age limit. We accept referrals from the older people’s services for people who have a primary diagnosis of a learning disability.
What types of problems are people admitted for?
People are admitted with a learning disability and either mental health or behavioural issues. Sometimes their placement has broken down or they need their medication intensively reviewed. Some people are distressed as they can’t get people to understand what they are trying to say or convey and this comes out as aggressive behaviour.
How long will the person usually be in hospital for?
This depends on the reason for admission but usually anywhere between 2 and 6 months. We aim to have the person in hospital for the minimum time necessary.
Will I be able to visit my relative in hospital?
Yes, we have daily visiting times between 3pm and 8pm and a relatives area to visit in comfort. Children may visit in the relative’s area in consultation with the Unit Manager.
Who is the person I need to contact to make a referral?
To make a referral please contact the Referrals Co-ordinator, Patricia Richards on patriciarichards@nhs.net or on 020 8238 0911 or the Operational Manager/Lead Nurse, Heather Shaw on heather.shaw@nhs.net or on 020 8238 0906.
What can I expect once I have been discharged?
All service users will be discharged with a Care Programme Approach plan, a Health Action Plan and a follow up appointment. There will always be a follow up contact within 7 days of discharge.
Do you offer any support in the home or community placement?
For service users in Brent we have an Intensive Support Team. This team can work with other services or families to support someone in times of crisis to prevent them from coming into hospital or if they are at risk of their current placement breaking down. If the person is admitted to hospital then the team can follow through the service user into hospital and onto their next placement or home to give extra support in the transition period and beyond if required.
If I have any worries or concerns about the service or about the treatment my relative has received, who should I contact?
Initially you should approach the nurse in charge or Unit Manager, Maryanne Brar, or make an appointment to see Heather Shaw, Operational Manager. We also have a Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) link worker on site that can assist you with asking for an explanation or dealing with your queries. The PALS link worker can also assist you with making a formal complaint through the CNWL complaints procedure if you wish.
Do you have staff from a range of backgrounds and ethnic groups?
We have staff from many diverse cultures, European, Caribbean, African, South African, Indian, Pakistani, Chinese and Asian and many more.
Do you respect particular religious or dietary requirements?
We have a menu available for lunch and evening meal with a variety of choices that meet the needs of all religious faiths, e.g. Halal, Afro Caribbean, Asian, Kosher and vegetarian. If service users have any other specific requirements these can be arranged.