A RUNDOWN building has been turned into a state-of-the-art inpatient unit for young people with mental health problems. Anne Walker, chief executive of the two Herts primary care trusts, officially opened Forest House at Harperbury near Radlett last week.

A RUNDOWN building has been turned into a state-of-the-art inpatient unit for young people with mental health problems.

Anne Walker, chief executive of the two Herts primary care trusts, officially opened Forest House at Harperbury near Radlett last week.

Almost completely rebuilt, Forest House will operate as an inpatient unit for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services and provide accommodation for stays of up to six months if necessary.

It has been transformed by the Herts Partnership Foundation Trust (HPFT) and will provide facilities for up to 16 young people aged from 12 to 18.

HPFT chief executive, Tom Cahill, said: "Forest House is a clear indication of our commitment to improve services for local people.

"It provides a modern, comfortable environment for treatment and therapy for young people experiencing mental health difficulties while allowing them to continue their education within Hertfordshire.

Cutting the ribbon, Anne Walker said it was an example of the successful partnership between HPFT and the primary care trusts.

She went on: "Not only has a rundown building been turned into something excellent, which we can all be proud of, but you are changing the way you provide services to benefit young people.

"I am very pleased that service users will get both therapeutic care and also care when they are in crisis. This will really make a difference."

Historically Herts has had few facilities for young people requiring acute emergency admissions and Forest House will also take planned admissions for therapeutic assessment and treatment. There are also new facilities for adolescents with eating disorders.