Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust confirms closure of Crowlin House in Calmore in favour of new 10-bed recovery house for people with serious mental illness
A New Forest mental health unit which helps people learn to live independently is set to be replaced by a ‘recovery house’ for those in crisis.
As reported in the A&T, Crowlin House in Calmore came under threat last December after a review by Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust—now known as Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust – deemed it no longer fit for purpose.
The 18-bedroom property, which only currently has five residents, is to be changed to a 10-bed recovery house to support people with serious mental illness who are nearing or in a crisis.
A petition was previously launched by the site’s then assistant manager Arzu Bilgen, who said Crowlin House – which supports those who have left secure in-patient accommodation – offered a “unique and valuable service”.
Staff at the property support residents with life skills, social activities and work experience before they make the move to independent living.
However, to meet national standards and expand mental health crisis support in the region, the NHS said in a report to Hampshire County Council’s health and adult social care select committee that a recovery house for people with serious mental illness is recommended for the site.
This type of provision will provide patients with intensive, short-term support to help manage a mental health crisis in a residential setting, rather than in a hospital.
This would be similar to a site in Winchester known as The Lookout, which supports adults aged 18 and over experiencing mental health crisis, the report explained.
It added that until it closes next March, work will take place with patients and staff to ensure a “safe transition”.
Chairman of the committee, Cllr Bill Whithers, said: “It is clear that the house is not fit for purpose. The statement looking at the options for the future and a business case that actually reflects current and future needs is the way ahead.”
