Mental Health Inpatient Unit (Ward 5A)
Who we are
The Mental Health Inpatient Unit on Ward 5A at PCH provides state-wide assessment and treatment for children and young people under 16 years with acute mental health issues.
It is part of a broader range of mental health care available through the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS).
Services we provide
Ward 5A is a recovery focused inpatient service where the consumer and their parents or carers and family remain at the centre of all we do.
The ward offers a multidisciplinary program in a safe and supportive environment. Clinical services include short term assessment, brief intervention and therapeutic group programs, depending on the needs of each person.
The team comprises of mental health professionals, including nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, education staff, Aboriginal mental health staff and peer support workers. Our clinicians aim to empower families to participate in their child’s or young person’s treatment and assist their recovery by providing information, education and support.
Ward 5A has a Working with Children and Young People Framework that outlines our approach to providing child and family-centred care to support young people and their carers to work collaboratively with us throughout their Ward 5A journey. To learn about the care provided by the clinical team on 5A, consumers and families are encouraged to read this framework.
We also work closely with agencies in the community, from when the young person is admitted, until they are discharged, to ensure their care is consistent and can be maintained when they return home.
Ward 5A refurbishment
To create an optimal environment that promotes mental health recovery, Ward 5A is undergoing a refurbishment aimed at providing a modern, safe, private, comfortable, welcoming, and inclusive space.
During this renovation, Ward 5A will remain operational. Children and adolescents will continue to receive care in areas of the ward unaffected by the refurbishment.
To maintain 20 available beds throughout the renovation, appropriately assessed patients aged 14 and 15 will be admitted to Nickoll Ward at the nearby Hollywood Private Hospital. The same dedicated Ward 5A staff will ensure consistent care and support across both locations.
Referrals
We accept referrals from therapists, specialists, GPs, schools and other community organisations.