Cheshire and Wirral NHS Foundation Trust (CWP) in working in partnership with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCHUB), Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, NHS England and NHS Wales to bring the new service to life.
Last week, Experts by Experience, who are people with lived experience of perinatal mental health challenges, visited the site to see their ideas come to life. Their input to the design of the calming communal areas to the creation of outdoor spaces and family-friendly facilities has been invaluable.
Once open, Seren Lodge will be the first specialist Mother and Baby Unit of its kind in the region and will house eight beds and include family visiting rooms, patient areas, activity rooms, and nursery spaces.
Experts by Experience have played a central role in co-designing the new facility. From ensuring access to natural light and gardens, to creating open communal areas and family-focused nursery spaces, their contributions have helped ensure the unit will feel welcoming and calm.
Jocelyn, Expert by Experience said: “I feel really proud and emotional to be part of this process. When I was unwell, I didn’t have access to a Mother and Baby Unit, so knowing this service will be here for families across Cheshire, Merseyside, and North Wales is incredible.”
Sally, Expert by Experience added: “I feel so emotional and proud of how far we’ve come. Seeing the things we spoke about at the very beginning, like space, light, and a garden, actually included is amazing. It’s fantastic to know our input has shaped how Seren Lodge will look and feel.”
Elaine said: “It’s fantastic to see Seren Lodge so close to completion. The unit that feels bright, open and hopefully place where families can feel safe, connected and supported”
She added: We’re delighted to welcome our newly recruited staff, who are bringing passion and commitment to this service.”
Builders will remain on site until the end of the year, with the unit due to welcome its first patients shortly afterwards.
