A mental health ward at a hospital in Surrey has closed after serving patients for more than a century and a half.
According to Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Trust, Victoria Ward at the Grade II listed Farnham Road Hospital in Guildford first opened in 1866, making it the oldest ward in the county.
In recent years, Victoria Ward provided care for adults aged over 65 with mental health conditions, including depression and bipolar disorder. These services have now been relocated to the newly refurbished Juniper Ward.
Matron at Farnham Road Hospital, Anne Sayed, said the new ward offers a significantly improved environment for patients. “Juniper Ward gives our older adults the kind of environment they deserve – modern, spacious and designed around their safety and comfort,” she said.
She added that the upgraded facilities also benefit staff, noting that the ward provides “the right facilities and layout to deliver person-centred care every day.”
A spokesperson for the trust said the transition would enhance patient recovery and wellbeing, while ensuring facilities meet modern standards for mental health care.
Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological and social wellbeing, influencing how individuals think, feel, cope with stress and interact with others. It plays a vital role in daily functioning, decision-making, relationships and overall quality of life.
Common mental health disorders include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and eating disorders. While often surrounded by stigma, these conditions are medically recognised illnesses influenced by biological, psychological and social factors, and can be effectively managed with timely support and appropriate treatment.
