New mental health unit opens at Blacktown Hospital

The Acute Adult Mental Health Inpatient Service, with a modern therapeutic space ensuring people can recover in a calm, healing environment, has officially opened at Blacktown Hospital.

The 30-bed unit has been designed to support recovery-orientated contemporary models of care, with locals with lived experience and the wider community playing a key role in its design and delivery, said Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor at the opening.

“There is an abundance of natural light, beautifully designed outdoor areas, sensory and de-escalation spaces and stunning artwork throughout the new facility.

“Importantly, people with lived experience were involved in every step of the development process, to ensure delivery of the best outcome for consumers, staff and the western Sydney community.

“All of this contributes to a therapeutic space that promotes cultural, emotional, psychological and physical safety and empowerment.”

The new unit features: 30 single-bed rooms each with unique artwork; two spacious dining and recreation rooms filled with natural light; a dedicated room for art therapy and other therapeutic activities; sensory modulation rooms including comfortable chairs and lounges, TV and skyview ceiling panel; indoor and outdoor exercise and fitness facilities; and landscaped gardens.

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Chief Executive Graeme Loy said feedback on the new facility has been fantastic. “I am excited for ongoing mental health redevelopment work across our District as we continue to provide the best possible care for the people of western Sydney and support their recovery.”

The purpose-built unit is part of the $700 million state-wide Mental Health Infrastructure Program to support the delivery of mental health care reform in NSW.

Consumers and staff transitioned from Bungarribee House at Blacktown Hospital into the new unit in February following a smoking ceremony.

The relocation also complements the $700 million Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospitals Expansion Project and makes way for Bungarribee House to be demolished and work to begin on an additional new purpose-built mental health facility at Blacktown Hospital.