New Unit For People with Mental Disabilities Opened At Peterborough By The Duke Of Gloucester

Anglia Television: Report on the new unit in Peterborough for patients with learning difficulties. The live-in centre was a step forward in the treatment of mental health, allowing patients to maintain their independence and engage in community activities.

Shot of the new unit for patients with learning difficulties in Peterborough. Shot of a patient being pushed in a wheelchair outside. People in a room are working at tables engaged in activities such as sanding down wood and painting. A woman is helping a patient with a puzzle. Shot of another helper showing a patient how to pour a cup of tea. Reporter Chris Young interviews the matron of the unit, who says that it is a tremendous step forward as the residents have the opportunity to live in small groups which is better for them. It also means that they have the opportunity to work within the community as the unit is near a private estate. Chris Young states that the NHS is running out of money and that this unit cost over a million pounds to build. The residents here are severely mentally disabled and so he questions whether they really appreciate the conditions which are here for them. The matron replies that she is sure that they do and that it is very important to them. She talks about their behaviour at the unit and how it shows their contentment and happiness. Chris Young then talks about how there had been some fears from the people who live in the nearby housing estate as to their safety. The matron replies that they have tried really hard to put the neighbours at ease and allowed them to look round the unit. Shot of a man helping a patient with the potter’s wheel. Shot of a woman helping patients to make pastry. Shot of a patient sitting on their bed in their bedroom. A poster is visible on the wall behind them.

Keywords

Community; Disabled People; Disability; Learning Disabilities; Mentally Disabled People; Mental Health; Residential Care;

Background Information

The new unit was opened by His Royal Highness Prince Richard the Duke of Gloucester.