Work has been completed on the development of a new-build eight-bed psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU) for children and young people at Warnford Hospital in Oxford.

Designed by GBS Health, the Meadow Unit is set to open its doors to patients in the coming weeks.

Funded by NHS England, the facility will enable young people experiencing the most-acute phase of a serious mental disorder to receive specialist help closer to home.

Marie Crofts, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust’s chief nurse, said: “We are delighted with the Meadow Unit as it represents something that will really help young people who need specialist treatment and care at a time when their needs are really acute.

“I want to thank everyone involved in the project, from the very early days of the design, through the building phase and all the work that has gone into things like the art, furniture, and decoration which make it a very calm environment.”

The environment features artworks produced by patients, in collaboration with a local artist, and supported by the Oxford Health Charity and Oxford Arts Partnership.

There is also a sensory room, café, garden, school rooms, and an outside gym and sports area.

Katrina Anderson, service director for Oxfordshire, said: “It was amazing to walk into the Meadow Unit at the moment work had been completed and just before the doors open for patients.

“The Meadow Unit is far more than a building – it represents two years of hard work from a wide range of people with skills ranging from clinical treatment, construction, design, planning, art, and engagement.

“And, of course, it represents a place where young people will receive the best care and treatment that will enhance and improve their lives.”