Acklam Road Hospital

Lotus Ward is a dedicated 10-bed inpatient unit located at Acklam Road Hospital, providing specialised mental health care for young people aged 13 to 18 years. As part of the Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust, Lotus Ward is committed to delivering high-quality, comprehensive assessment and treatment for adolescents facing early onset psychosis and other complex mental health disorders.  

Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to supporting young people during critical moments in their mental health journey. Admissions to Lotus Ward occur when a young person is in crisis or when their mental health challenges have become complex, necessitating a focused period of assessment and intervention. 

At Lotus Ward, we prioritise a compassionate and therapeutic environment, ensuring that every young person receives the tailored support they need to navigate their mental health challenges effectively. Our holistic approach not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for ongoing recovery and wellbeing. 

At Lotus Ward, education is delivered by a dedicated team of specialist teaching staff from River Tees Hospital School. Our education team is committed to integrating academic learning with therapeutic progress, working collaboratively with the onsite clinical medical team to support the holistic development of each young person. 

Education takes place either on the ward or in our designated education suite, ensuring a conducive learning environment. Our staff are present during term time, offering bespoke educational packages tailored to individual needs, which may include small group sessions or one-on-one instruction.  

For patients over the age of 16, we prioritise supporting informed choices regarding their future education, employment, or training pathways. 

Our education staff maintain regular communication with schools, families, and other stakeholders. They participate in weekly ward rounds, multidisciplinary meetings, and daily briefings to ensure a coordinated approach to each young person’s educational and therapeutic needs. 

Curriculum

At Lotus Ward, education is accessible to all pupils as soon as they are well enough to attend. Our education team is dedicated to fostering engagement and building positive relationships with pupils from the moment they are admitted to the hospital.

For Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 students at Acklam Road, we offer a core curriculum that includes English, Maths, and Science. Pupils may work on assignments set by their home school or follow a tailored curriculum pathway designed by River Tees Hospital School. These pathways are crafted to meet the diverse needs of our learners, ensuring that each child develops skills and knowledge appropriate to their individual circumstances.  

In addition to core subjects, young people participate in Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) education, as well as a Project Pathway. We also provide regular enrichment opportunities, including activities such as crochet and Music Inc., to enhance their learning experience.  

Our whole-school commitment to wellbeing and resilience drives our successes. We strive to nurture every student, helping them progress academically, socially, and emotionally. In our unique teaching environment, each young person is known and valued. Their interests, knowledge, skills, and understanding are integrated into a personalised learning journey that supports their growth and development.