A haven for the severely disabled within the context of a comprehensive psychiatric community service.
The priorities accorded severely disabled or disturbed long-stay patients in Regional and District planning strategies vary enormously. A scheme to cater for the needs of this group is described. The scheme includes: non-stigmatising housing; a domestic regime, daytime occupation and leisure activities offering forms of enabling and caring that foster the highest possible levels of functioning; a secure home; private and peaceful outdoor space; and graduated steps towards independence that allow for the possibility of relapse. The central concept is the establishment of a Community for people with severe difficulties in making social contacts. The importance of integrating the scheme into a comprehensive District psychiatric service is emphasised.
D000328:Adult; D003156:Community Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D003631:Day Care, Medical; D003858:Dependency, Psychological; D004739:England; D006285:Health Planning; D006798:Housing; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D012112:Residential Facilities