Douglas House: a new type of hostel ward for chronic psychotic patients

A new type of hostel ward is described in which domestic activities take the place of attendance at a day centre or industrial workshop. Residents no longer depend on the institution for meals, cleaning, or social activities. The programme is resident-orientated, and individual treatment plans are designed and effected using a points system. The emphasis of group activities is on communication and living skills. The hostel ward is able to care for our most disabled patients who are thought to need 24-hour nursing care.