Inpatient care for older adult mental health (Cedar Ward)

​About the ward

Cedar Ward is a hospital unit for older adults with mental health needs that can’t be safely met in the community, such as depression or psychosis.

We provide 24‑hour support, including:

• assessment
• treatment
• activities like occupational therapy and social groups

We also help plan the right care for you on the ward or when you return to the community.

You may come into hospital by choice or we may refer you if we think hospital care would help you.

What to expect

Our facilities include:

• 14 beds
• library
  
• quiet space
• small kitchen
• laundry room

When you arrive, we welcome you and show you:

• your single-occupancy bedroom
• lounges and dining area
• toilets and washing facilities

A nurse is assigned to you to coordinate your care and be your main point of contact during your stay. A nurse and healthcare assistant will support your daily care.

Ward rounds take place 2 times a week. Your nurse will let you know when your doctor is likely to see you. We can arrange for a nurse or doctor to speak with a family member if requested.

Medical support is available at all times.

Our mealtimes are:

• breakfast, 8am to 9am
• lunch, 12pm to 1pm
• ​dinner, 5pm to 6pm

You can use your mobile phone on silent. Wifi is available, speak to a member of staff for details.

What to bring for your stay

When you come to stay at the ward, you should bring:

• your current medications
• casual clothes and nightwear
• comfortable shoes
• toiletries

You can bring small personal items like photos or keepsakes to make your space feel more comfortable and familiar. 

We recommend keeping no more than £25 with you on the ward. Larger amounts are transferred to our finance team to keep safe.

We can’t take responsibility for any lost or damaged items.

Services available during your stay

We offer a range of services to support your wellbeing:

Chaplaincy

Our hospital chaplain visits regularly and offers support to people of all faiths or none. You’re also welcome to see your own priest or chaplain.

Chiropody

Foot care is available if you need it, speak to a member of staff.

Laundry

You can use the ward laundry facilities or take clothes home if you prefer.

Visiting hours and parking

Family and friends are welcome to visit during our visiting hours:

• 2pm to 4pm
  
• 7pm to 8pm

Children under 18 can visit if you arrange this with staff in advance.

We may limit the number of visitors during busy times to keep the ward calm.

We have free parking on site and disabled spaces near the entrance.

There is a lift to reach the ward.

Contacting the ward

You can contact us any day of the week.

The best times to call are:

• 10.30am to 12pm
• 1.30pm to 7.30pm

You should nominate 1 person to make enquiries to help us manage calls.

We only share information with consent or where required by law, but we’re always happy to listen to your views or concerns.

About our team

The Cedar Ward team includes:

• mental health nurses and doctors
• psychologists
• occupational therapists
• physiotherapists
• dietitians
  
• pharmacists
• social activities coordinator

You’ll work with our team who support your recovery and help plan your discharge.

We also work closely with community mental health teams to make sure your care continues after you leave the ward.

Support from charities and organisations

You can get mental health support from many local charities and organisations for memory loss and dementia.

Find a list of local mental health charities and organisations.

My Voice: advocacy service

My Voice is an independent advocacy service that supports you to deal with problems caused by your mental health or capacity needs.

They help you express your views and make sure your rights are respected in care and decision-making.

+44 (0) 7797 716447

My Voice website​