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Solutions: Improving Patient and Carer Experience
Involvement of Family and Friends
Family and Friends Made to Feel Welcomed
Family Room - Acute Mental Health Facility
Family Room - Acute Mental Health Facility 
Families and carers of people receiving care in the acute mental health facility reported difficulties visiting their relative in hospital. There was very little privacy for families to meet and there were no activities or facilities for visiting children.
Using a small grant ($1500) and lots of imagination, the mental health facility freed up a room and installed entertainment equipment, an exercise bike, toys for the children and a "chalkboard wall". Families could now meet in privacy and engage in activities with their relative - not just conversation (which was sometimes difficult). There is also an information board for relatives helps keep them informed about support services and other helpful information.
Evidence of Success
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Family feedback is very positive. "A family room such as this also provides a more calming situation for the patients and carers of someone who was experiencing their first admission to a psychiatric ward" - Carer |
Opportunities for Improvement
Dimensions
Measures
- Family and friends made to feel welcomed
- Enough time spent with family and friends
- Staff did everything possible to promote comfort
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