Environments
We work with a number of partners across our workstreams
You'll find an update on our recent work into the environments of mental health services below.
Our Environment report into Adult Community Mental Health Teams (CMHTs) was undertaken in collaboration with health boards across Wales. It was led by the NHS Wales' Joint Commissioning Committee (JCC) and we provided support.
Recognising that the state of care environments directly impacts clinical delivery, safety, and staff and visitor wellbeing, the report assessed offices against a bespoke 109-point specification covering ten domains, ranging from building maintenance and accessibility to privacy, dignity, and equity.
The findings from site visits conducted between January and June 2023 highlighted important operational insights and systemic variations across regions. While many locations strive to maintain safe and supportive therapeutic hubs, the audit underscored critical infrastructure challenges, such as inconsistent parking security, variable disabled access, and differing capacities for comprehensive Welsh-language and communication provisions.
Ultimately, the report provides valuable baseline data to help health boards and national commissioners target strategic investments, eliminate geographic and structural inequities, and ensure that community mental health spaces remain safe, inclusive, and therapeutic for both service users and staff.