Establishment of New “Designers for Mental Health Care Settings Network”

WHY BOTHER WITH ANOTHER NETWORK?
For over four years, the Department of Design at the University of Central Lancashire has been collaborating with staff and clients within mental health care settings in order to design and refurbish in-patient and low secure units. During this period we have been told by many health professionals that they are often asked to oversee refurbishment and new builds with little design knowledge of their own. On the other hand, designers want more understanding of mental illness and the needs of mental health service users with whom they may be working. Service users and carers want to know how they can best contribute when they are asked to give advice. It was suggested that we facilitate a network for designers who particularly focus on mental health care settings. The Department of Design at the University has funded a two year project which seeks to develop the network. Called the “Think Project”, the project aims to raise issues and cause those involved in design to think about the effects and impact of design in mental health care settings as well as promoting thoughtful approaches to designing products used in these settings. This network has been established for ANYONE with an interest in designing mental health units and settings. Architects, artists, designers, NHS estates staff, medical staff, service users, clients, nursing staff, Occupational Therapists, Psychologists… whatever your interest, if you have been asked to advise on or get involved in designing new mental health settings or refurbishing your own areas then this network is for you!

• A place where ideas can be floated, product information shared and discussion can occur with others working on similar projects in similar settings. 
• A resource for designers to learn more of mental health settings and the working culture in order for them to be able to work freely and creatively
• A resource for those involved in design who do not see design as their primary function, but have been asked to manage or advise on design in mental health care settings.

WHEN DO WE MEET?
Meetings are to be held quarterly. We also facilitate conferences and seminars as funding becomes available. Meeting notes are available for members from the network co-ordinator, Dr Ann Whitworth.

HOW MUCH DOES MEMBERSHIP COST?
It was agreed at the first meeting that membership would be free but that members must register to receive all the relevant information. This was agreed so that the network would be inclusive rather than exclusive and anyone with an interest could join. Alternative funding and sponsorship will be sought for different activities. If you are interested in joining the network and receiving information about our activities, please complete the registration form.