A plan has been submitted to convert the Ghamkol Sharif Education Centre into a unit operated by the Birmingham& Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
A proposal has been submitted to turn an education centre at the Central Jamia Mosque, Ghamkol Sharif in Golden Hillock Road, into a mental health facility(Image: -)
A plan has been submitted to convert an education unit into a mental health centre.
The Ghamkol Sharif Education Centre in Small Heath could be changed into a 24/7 site treating up to 30 patients daily in a bid to take the pressure off hospital A&E departments.
The Golden Hillock Road facility would be run by Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and provide routine and urgent appointments for those in crisis.
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The proposal would involve a UK-first pilot scheme for the Trieste-based model of care, which is known for its “open door, no restraint” philosophy.
The Daria Ul Uloom Charity, which is affiliated with the Ghamkol Sharif Mosque next door, is behind the idea.
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A planning statement said: “The facility and the model’s principal purpose is to relieve pressure on A&E departments and to offer the best possible treatment in a non-institutional setting.
“Aside from routine work and on-going community-based care, people in distress can be brought to the facility, day or night and receive specialist mental health treatment in an appropriate setting, which should result in better and quicker outcomes than if they were taken to A&E and potentially admitted to a non-specialist ward, with non-specialist care, which can be problematic for the individual, for other patients and for staff.
“It is anticipated the bulk of patients will receive prompt treatment and remain at the site for between one to six hours.
“Occasionally patients may need to be on-site for up to 12 hours. Some patients will stay for longer, potentially up to seven to ten days.”
The centre “will offer discretion and privacy for clients and their families,” is close bus stops and Small Heath Station.
A planning document concluded: “The proposed development is a well-considered, appropriate re-use of an existing building, supported by excellent transport links and strong community connections.
“The change of use to a medical centre will deliver vital public health benefits while maintaining the character and accessibility of the local area.”
The application will go before city planners in the near future.