BRE and the Design in Mental Health Network have launched a world-first
testing scheme for construction products used in mental health care facilities
has launched, offering vulnerable patients more protection from self-harm and
better environments more conducive to recovery.
The scheme offers comprehensive testing guidance for materials, fixtures and
hardware for use within mental healthcare facilities.
Until now, there has been no global standard to assess the safety of
products used in mental health care and treatment facilities. By introducing
this scheme, BRE and DIMHN aim to help protect people at their most vulnerable
time. The scheme has been developed over five years with guidance from over 60
experts globally, led by a team in the UK.
BRE’s CEO, Gillian Charlesworth, said: “The pandemic has resulted in a sharp
increase in people suffering from poor mental health. Now, more than ever, it
is crucial that the construction, design and health industries work together to
create safer environments for patients. BRE and DIMHN are proud to be at the
forefront of this. As a world first, the Informed Choices scheme also
represents the best of British innovation, with international manufacturers and
healthcare providers looking closely at adopting this standard around the
world.”
DIMHN Chair, Philip Ross commented: “We’ve created these standardised tests
to allow people involved in creating these spaces to make more informed choices
about the products within the building – better product selection, with great
architecture will keep patients and staff safe, and help foster better
therapeutic relationships for a more sustaining recovery. With interest in this
scheme from USA and Australia, we believe this initiative can help millions of
people at their most vulnerable time.”
