Heulwen Ward is a 10-bedded assessment unit for people who suffer from memory related problems.  The whole of the multidisciplinary team are involved in the assessment process and input from Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapist, Psychologists and Medical staff.  As there are many factors including physical health that influence a person's cognitive ability, the assessment has to be holistic.

We place a great emphasis on maintaining activity therefore a member of staff works as an 'Activities Organiser' with activities which include craftwork, cooking, light exercise and relaxation.

The ward aims to complete the assessment process within 2 - 6 weeks and the purpose is to establish the cognitive, physical and self-help ability with a view to planning an effective aftercare package.  This may mean a return home with support but can also mean transfer to a Residential or Nursing Home.  The aftercare package includes various types of community based staff therefore it is important for us to liaise closely with them, as well as with the families / carers.

The majority of patients admitted to the Heulwen Unit are informal but we do see those who are detained under a section of the Mental Health Act.  The ward operates a locked door policy due to the fact that many of the patients would be at risk if they were to wander off the unit without an escort.

Glasmor Ward, Penrhos Stanley Hospital

Glasmor is a purpose built dementia care ward situated in the Penrhos Stanley Hospital, Holyhead.  The catchment area covers Anglesey and the Arfon area of Gwynedd.

The ward has 15 beds for patients suffering from dementia and other memory related illnesses.

Nursing staff carry out ongoing assessment and treatment, including reminiscence, diversional and physical activites.  There are 26 nursing staff who also offer support and advice to carers who may be distressed and provide professional advice to other wards within the hospital.  There is a commitment to collaborate with carers and families.  The ward has Physiotherapy input and access to the Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy Services.

The ward works closely with the Community Dementia Care Teams from Anglesey and Arfon.  Workers frequently visit the ward to contribute to and review care, risk plans and plan for future care packages.

Hafan Ward, Bryn Beryl Hospital

Hafan is a 7-bedded ward in Bryn Beryl Hospital, Pwllheli.  It provides step-down facilities from Heulwen Ward, Ysbyty Gwynedd, allowing for treatment programmes to be continued and monitored prior to clients being discharged.  It also offers reassessment for clients residing in the Dwyfor area who have a diagnosis of dementia, linking directly to specific elements within the client's care plan.

Hafan Ward also offers 4-day care places for dementia sufferers operating over seven days and offering continued assessment and review of treatment packages.

Uned Meirion, Dolgellau

Uned Meirion is a 9-bedded ward based in Dolgellau Hospital.  This provides step-down facilities from Heulwen Ward, Ysbyty Gwynedd, allowing for treatment programmes to be continued and monitored prior to clients being discharged.

The ward offers reassessment for clients residing in the Meirionnydd area who have a diagnosis of dementia, linking directly to specific elements within the client's care plan.