Page 5 - Clinical Connections- Autumn 2021

Client Wellbeing

DEVELOPING HAWKSHEAD: MAKING A GOOD

THING BETTER

Jo Payne, Operational Interface Manager for the Hawkshead development

growing body of evidence indicates Patient surveys regularly highlight Standard, “Design of an accessible and
that there are clear links between the sort of amenities that people value: inclusive built environment” and plans were
A patient health and wellbeing and sunlight, bright decoration, displays of art independently assessed and approved
the physical characteristics of hospitals. and a welcoming café; personal space by the local Design Review Panel, with
Through effective design, the built – somewhere they can be alone – all reference to the National Planning Policy
environment of healthcare facilities can the better if there is somewhere to walk Framework. The NPPF specifically obliges
have a direct impact on patient outcomes, in the fresh air, somewhere with a view. panels to assess whether designs are
including reducing levels of anxiety and Accessibility is also vital, so that all spaces “safe, inclusive and accessible” and
stress, shortening recovery periods and can be enjoyed equally by those with “promote health and wellbeing”.
increasing social interaction. impaired mobility.
Beneficial effects have also been At Hawkshead, the RVC has embarked Key benefits of the campus
observed for staff, including improved on the largest and most ambitious single development will include:
morale, job satisfaction and wellbeing, as capital development the College has ever • An enhanced central green space with
well as increased productivity and lower undertaken. Due for completion in mid- wild flower and native tree planting,
rates of absence. 2022, the project will deliver improved leading to an accessible and pet-
While these studies primarily relate to the and expanded teaching and research friendly “Garden walk”.
field of human medicine, there are clear facilities, as well as providing better office • A stylish new plaza adjacent to the
parallels to veterinary settings, where staff accommodation for College staff. canteen, for staff and clients to enjoy a
happiness and the client experience are so The project will also provide a range of drink or some food in the fresh air.
new staff social spaces and will improve • Alignment of key pedestrian
both the staff and visitor experience connections, with step-free access and
through better wayfinding and building improved campus wayfinding.
connectivity, and enhanced planting and • Updated displays of RVC art and
landscaping within the College grounds. artefacts providing points of interest
From the outset, the redevelopment has and education around a bright and
been about far more than just improving spacious central atrium.
our offices and laboratories. At every • Upgraded site safety and security,
A new area at Hawkshead stage of planning, we have sought to including improvements to exterior
make our campus more cohesive, to lighting, CCTV and access controls.
closely intertwined. improve accessibility, to increase social and
While not specific to RVC campuses, collaborative interaction, and to derive the For College staff, there will also be:
ageing buildings, outdated design, poor maximum benefit from the wonderful green • A relaxing staff lounge and garden
repair and a piecemeal approach to onsite spaces that surround us. room, centrally located to encourage
development can all contribute to sub- With support from our architects, all work interaction between colleagues from
optimal outcomes for both staff and clients. has been guided by the applicable British different departments.
• Newly refurbished office
accommodation with a diverse range
of meeting and break-out spaces.
• A comfortable, well-lit waiting area for
the shuttle bus, with adjacent seating.

The last couple of years have made for
a challenging construction environment
and we still have a little way to go before
the plans all become reality, but we are
confident that the improvements we are
making and will continue to make will
benefit our community and enhance our
reputation for years to come. For further
information, you can contact Jo Payne via
capitalprojects@rvc.ac.uk

For small animal referrals, please call:
01707 666399
Drone image of the evolving Hawkshead Campus Email:
qmhreception@rvc.ac.uk
Autumn 2021 5