The furniture needs of mental health environments

It can be challenging to specify suitable furniture that meets the demands of a wide range of challenging and unpredictable behaviours. The models you order must be safe and robust, yet in keeping with the necessary style to function as a component of an effective and practical therapeutic environment. Here are some of the considerations that should inform your choices when selecting healthcare furniture for mental health environments.

Reinforced frame construction

Opt for furniture that is designed with a frame construction reinforced with strong metal fixtures. This will minimise the risk of severe damage to the frames due to the daily demands of being in a challenging environment. For example, non-retractable security screws can be used during the manufacturing process to ensure users are unable to remove fittings, keeping the environment safe.

Preventing secretion

On selected models of cabinets and benches, the actual components have been designed without any surrounding gaps to eliminate the possibility of users hiding items inside the back or joints of a piece of furniture. And for added security, some units are available with features like a polycarbonate underbottom that enables staff to easily look underneath and inside the construction. This will prevent users from storing any items in the base of a furniture or storage unit.

Optional weighting in furniture

Some benches, cabinets and tables are available with optional weighting of up to 90kg to reduce the risk of users lifting or moving furniture. The weights are distributed inside the construction of a piece’s frame, without affecting the aesthetics of the furniture in any way. Users cannot remove the weights, and these types of furniture are ideal for lounge, dining and therapy areas.

Furniture in mental health environments – where to find out more

The products supplied by David Bailey Furniture manufacture specialist furniture for healthcare environments, and can assist with the design and furnishing of a safe and effective mental health environment. We specialise in bespoke storage units to be used in a healthcare setting. Please visit our healthcare furniture section to see our range, which is manufactured at our factory in Broadstairs, Kent.

If you would like to find out more about what we can offer, please get in touch.