Chesham House

The rehabilitation stage of treatment – for patients aged 18 and over

As the patient’s physical strength increases and physiological changes occur, their psychological needs alter. This frequently is a distressing stage of recovery as the patient must now leave behind the ‘coping mechanism’ that their eating disorder may have provided.

When the clinical team considers it appropriate, the patient commences a carefully monitored transfer to the second stage of treatment in the adjacent building, Chesham House, where they will develop the life skills that will promote their long-term recovery.

The staff team in Chesham House, and the ‘resident’, as the individual is now known, mutually formulate a therapeutic plan tailored to meet their specific needs. Short, medium and long-term goals are identified. Relapse prevention training is a feature of this stage of treatment. Challenging situations are identified as learning opportunities in preparation for the difficulties the individual may encounter after discharge into independent life.

The resident continues under the care of their psychiatrist, whom they meet at two-weekly intervals. Individual and family therapy continues as before.

Residents learn to manage and take responsibility for maintaining their weight within a healthy range. They continue to develop confidence around nutrition by food shopping and preparation, restaurant meals with staff and an occasional ‘takeaway’ meal. They cook both for themselves and for each other so that they are able to manage the challenge of eating in social situations. They may also go shopping for clothes with the help of a support worker. Planned visits and overnight stays at home or with friends ease the transition from residential care.

Chesham House provides residents with the opportunity to ‘practise’ spontaneity. They discover new ways of expressing need and communicating with others, which in turn facilitates the formation of healthy relationships. They learn and develop strategies for overcoming unhealthy patterns of behaviour. They explore social, educational and leisure activities in order to develop a balanced lifestyle.

Chesham House also accepts admissions of individuals who have not first received treatment in Baskerville House. In these cases usually their psychiatrist or family is seeking a period of rehabilitation following treatment on a hospital ward or in an acute unit. It may be felt that a short admission to Chesham House may enhance the individual's recovery, leading to a reduced risk of relapse.

In every way the care and support I received during my 3½ months was just perfect from minute one. I felt valued as an individual, 100% cared for, and it was such a great relief to be in an environment where I could just be at the stage I was without feeling anxiety, guilt or frustration. Each and every member of staff at Chesham is great, and the levels of support and care go way beyond the call of duty. (FMJ)

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