Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Trust‘s Project Transforms Mental Health Care

Case Study:  Hellesdon Hospital Rivers Centre

Client: Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Trust

Contractor: Vinci Construction IHP

Sub-contractor: Relabond

Products supplied by: KWC DVS

Background
Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Trust embarked on a £55 million, four-year project to create the Rivers Centre, a state-of-the-art mental health hospital and community hub providing comprehensive mental healthcare. Just a year ago, the site was empty, but through determination and vision, the Rivers Centre has been transformed into a fully operational facility serving patients and their families.

The Challenge

The challenge extended beyond simply constructing a functional hospital on an empty plot of land; it required a highly specialised approach to ensure the sanitary and plumbing systems met the unique needs of a mental health facility. Every aspect of the design had to prioritise safety, hygiene, and accessibility, with particular attention given to the vulnerability of the patients who would be using the space. The products selected needed to adhere to the most stringent healthcare standards, ensuring both practicality and compliance. Furthermore, all of this had to be achieved within a demanding timeline, which required careful coordination between contractors, designers, and healthcare professionals to ensure the hospital could be operational on schedule without compromising on quality or safety.

The Solution
KWC DVS for products essential for the hospital's construction. Key products included:

• High-Security Basins and Toilets: Products like the VROl-030 High-Security Basin and VROl-071 High-Security WC Pan ensured patients' safety.
• Sensor-Operated Fixtures: Anti-vandal wave-on sensors for touchless operation of taps and toilets were used to enhance hygiene and reduce infection risks.
• Accessible Solutions: The VROl-072 Disabled High-Security WC Pan was installed to accommodate all patients.
• Shower and Bath Amenities: The SH01-013 Dual Outlet Shower Tower and wave-on sensors for bath filling enhanced patients' bathroom experiences.
• Stainless steel: The DUHS, Janitorial units, and WUDU are designed for use in low-risk areas such as staff spaces. The product files included these products to ensure suitability for these specific environments.

Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Trust demonstrated exceptional project management, overcoming site challenges and compliance with all products and KWC DVS.

Results
The Rivers Centre became a leading facility in mental health care, with positive feedback from staff and patients on its functionality and accessibility. The specialised sanitary ware and sensor-activated fixtures improved hygiene and created a more dignified patient environment.

The project showcased Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Trust's ability to provide solutions for healthcare facilities. With successful commissioning, the Trust is now better equipped to deliver high-quality care.

This case study highlights the impact of strategic partnerships and innovative solutions on advancing healthcare infrastructure and setting new standards for future mental health projects.