Crystal House is one year old

It’s one year since Crystal House, our specialist unit for young people with a learning disability and mental health need opened its doors.

The unit is the first of its kind in London, offering children aged 13 to 18 years old with a learning disability and mental health difficulties treatment closer to home.

“On 17 June 2019, we opened the doors to Crystal House. A project with two years, six months and 17 days in planning. I remember in the run up to our launch, we were emotional, scared, excited, enthused and every other emotion known to mankind!” recalled Dr Saadia Arshad, Clinical Lead, LD Service Line, and Consultant Psychiatrist, Crystal House.

“Our official launch was on 26 June 2019 with our Chief Executive, and what an emotional day that was too! I can never thank our divisional leadership and Trust Executive Team for their support and trust in us. I write with greatest sense of pride and gratefulness. Happy first birthday Crystal House!”

Saadia paid tribute to her colleagues past and present, who have been “instrumental” in running the unit successfully.

“Seven admissions, four successful discharges, no readmissions, many many hours of your hard work and countless amount of dedication make us a success that we are.

“Take a moment as you read this, smile with pride and tell yourself that you are doing an amazing job by bringing positive change to lives of vulnerable young people who need help at most crucial time of their lives,” said Saadia.

The unit will host a socially distanced celebration to mark its first birthday later this week.

Find out more about Crystal House here.