Aster Ward

Aster ward is a shorter-stay stabilisation service for women that focuses on phase one trauma work, psychoeducation and safety. Women are likely to be pre-contemplative to change, have a history of mild to moderate violence and aggression and have an over dependence on high levels of observations. The team at The Aster Unit work with each woman to reduce observation levels through a combination of Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) and Positive Behaviour Support (PBS). The team aim to start the process of therapeutic engagement, preparing the patient for active engagement and intensive trauma work on Darcy ward.

Darcy Ward

Darcy ward offers intensive trauma work for those patients who show ability to use skills and do not require a higher level of observational support. The service offers a continuation of care with staff that women are familiar with and with whom they have built a trusting relationship. The model of care on Darcy ward continues with CFT combined with PBS, however patients will access longer-term interventions such as Trauma Focussed CBT and EMDR to address their trauma difficulties.

Admission Criteria

• Women over the age of eighteen
• Detained under the Mental Health Act 1983 (amended 2007)
• Diagnosis of Personality disorder or Conduct Disorder
• May have a mild Learning Disability or ASD
• May have a history or low to moderate levels of aggression
• Likely to have a history of trauma, abuse and/or attachment issues
• May require 1:1 or 2:1 support
• For Aster Ward – likely to present with high levels of self-harm and pre-contemplative to therapy

For Darcy Ward – history of high-risk behaviours but have completed stabilisation work and are ready for engagement in trauma therapy