Rt Hon David Evennett, MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford, visited Holbrook Ward at Queen Mary’s Hospital, Sidcup then the Bexley Memory Service in Emerton Close, Bexleyheath on Friday 21 April.

Holbrook Ward is a specialist intensive care unit for those with advanced dementia, and the Bexley Memory Service provides assessment, diagnosis and treatment for people who are experiencing difficulties with their memory. Both services are run by Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust.

Mr Evennett was given a tour of the Holbrook Ward, which is impressively decorated with feature retro wallpaper and a 1950s reminiscence theme. He also spoke with a number of staff members across both sites to hear more about the work they do to support their patients.

Mr Evennett praised Oxleas from the tremendous work they do, and he also commented: “for too long there hasn’t been enough focus on mental healthcare in this country, and the issue has been surrounded by unacceptable stigma leaving many to suffer in silence. We want to transform the way we approach mental health problems across society and at every stage of life, making changes in our classrooms, at work and in our communities. This Government has been determined to ensure anyone suffering from mental health problems receive the compassion, care, and the treatment they deserve.”