SAFETY
This begins with energy-efficient systems, high- performance insulation, smart lighting controls and low-carbon heating solutions. Material selection also plays a vital role. Durable, easy-to-clean finishes with long lifespans help reduce maintenance costs; antimicrobial surfaces can support infection prevention and control. Sustainability extends beyond the building itself.
Working with supply-chain partners committed to reducing waste and energy consumption throughout their own operations can have a meaningful impact on an organisation’s overall carbon footprint while supporting long-term value. Importantly, sustainability and wellbeing are closely
linked. Natural materials, good indoor air quality and a comfortable room temperature all contribute to healthier environments for patients and staff alike, reinforcing the therapeutic intent of mental health spaces while supporting workforce wellbeing.
Creating a responsive environment Mental health environments must also be designed to respond effectively to the unpredictable. Situations can escalate rapidly, and staff need to be confident that help is available immediately when needed. Responsive environments enable staff and patients to summon assistance quickly and discreetly. Embedding safety alarm systems into the fabric of a building ensures access to immediate support at the press of a button, delivering precise information about location and urgency to responders. This approach can be seen in practice at St Ann’s Hospital in Poole, part of Dorset HealthCare NHS trust. The hospital provides psychiatric support for adults with acute mental health needs, where staff may need to call for assistance in both emergency and assistance situations. By integrating a safety alarm system throughout the site, the hospital has created an environment where staff and patients alike can access timely support without disrupting the therapeutic atmosphere. Staff members wear discreet person-worn alarm
devices (PITs) that allow them to raise different types of alerts – emergency or an assistance request – depending on the situation. When activated, the PIT sends infrared
signals to advanced receiver units positioned throughout the hospital, which in turn communicate the exact location and urgency of the call to various display units and devices. This rapid, targeted response allows staff to intervene and de-escalate potentially dangerous situations, thereby reducing risk for workers and other residents. For patients, wall-mounted call buttons within patient areas provide individuals with a simple and dignified way to call for help if they feel distressed. Pressing the button brings staff assistance safely and easily, whether a person needs help carrying out daily activities or need support because they sense that they or another patient is about to become distressed.
Staff at St Ann’s Hopsital in Poole wear discreet alarm devices.
November 2026 Health Estate Journal 69
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