Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust has confirmed that a 15-bed mental health unit in Oxford is scheduled to cease operations next year.
Lambourn House functions as a low security forensic mental health facility situated within the Littlemore Mental Health Centre grounds.
The unit serves patients transitioning from higher security environments back into community settings.
The Trust announced that Lambourn House has ceased admitting new residents and will shut its doors permanently in March 2027.
According to the organisation, the decision stems from significant growth in community-based forensic mental health provision in recent years, which the Trust believes can now adequately meet patient needs.
An anonymous member of the ward’s staff expressed concerns about the impact on patient care.
The worker stated that without this transitional facility, patients would require considerably longer periods of inpatient treatment.
The employee suggested the change would not result in financial savings and expressed worry that discharge rates could deteriorate as a result.
According to the staff member, the decision was implemented before any formal consultation with frontline workers took place, describing those responsible as administrative staff unfamiliar with direct care delivery.
The Trust indicated that formal consultation with employees would occur in accordance with established procedures.
Insiders indicated that most staff anticipate reassignment to alternative positions within the organisation but expressed disappointment at being excluded from discussions regarding the unit’s future before the closure was announced.
A representative for the Trust confirmed that Lambourn House supports up to 15 individuals completing their recovery journey before returning to independent living.
The spokesperson noted the expansion of community forensic services has reduced demand for residential step-down placements, prompting the reconfiguration of care pathways.
Every affected patient will undergo individualised transition planning, with the organisation pledging comprehensive support for service users, relatives and employees throughout the process.
The Littlemore Hospital campus encompasses three distinct facilities.
Wenric Ward accommodates 21 male patients, Lambourn House provides pre-discharge accommodation for 10 men and five women, while Thames House offers enhanced low-secure provisions for 26 women.
The Trust has stated that no determination has been made regarding the future utilisation of the Lambourn House premises following its closure.