Council boss hails ‘fantastic’
Dementia unit
ROCHDALE Infirmary’s Oasis dementia unit has been hailed as a ‘fantastic and groundbreaking facility’ after a visit by a council boss.
Chief executive Steve Rumbelow met with staff and patients at the 10-bed unit which assesses and diagnoses patients from Rochdale, Heywood and Middleton.
It is believed to be the first of its kind in a hospital setting in England and is a ‘purpose-built environment’ to support recovery, as well as access to nursing and mental health staff.
Mr Rumbelow, who is also accountable chief officer for the borough’s Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), was given a tour around the unit by Ward Sister Lisa Ward.
A highlight of his visit was meeting 89-year-old patient Evelyn Alcock where they discussed her positive experiences as a patient on the Oasis Unit.
Lisa Ward said: “It was a pleasure to show Mr Rumbelow around and introduce him to the staff and patients.
“He was very interested to hear about the unit’s history and the different types of care we offer to the patients.”
As well as beds, the unit boasts its own relaxing lounge, kitchen and dining areas and visiting times are open for relatives and carers.
A patient’s length of stay is usually between five and seven days as referral and care pathways are designed to meet the needs of each patient.
Mr Rumbelow said: “I was delighted to visit a fantastic and groundbreaking facility, which is really leading the way in providing state-ofthe art dementia care.
“It was great to meet such a dedicated and committed team of staff, delivering this superb service.
“We can be proud of the pioneering partnership work that is taking place, across the borough, to deliver such outstanding dementia care and support.”