Elite Systems aids NHS with new hydrotherapy unit

​We’re proud to announce that our work delivering modular solutions for a new NHS hydrotherapy unit for Dene Barton Community Hospital in Somerset is finally getting the celebration it deserves. After opening its doors in August 2021, the restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic have meant that keeping its patients safe was the number one priority for a long time.

After being contacted by Somerset NHS Foundation Trust to be trusted in delivering this unique specification, we were thrilled to get to work in designing, manufacturing and installing this bespoke modular building. The 10.2 by 9.8m unit was required as the previously existing hospital pool was decommissioned, presenting the Trust with an opportunity to expand its physiotherapy services to a dedicated site at Dene Barton.

The new single storey unit was designed with additional features built in from the beginning with the patients in mind in every step of the way, including a temperature-controlled pool and specialist equipment to aid in the therapy and provide safety such as the patient hoist. The space also features extra storage space, changing rooms, and an administrative station at the entrance. Plus, our larch wood cladding was used to create an attractive and welcoming exterior for patients as well as allowing the new build to blend in aesthetically with its surrounding environment.

Commenting on the use of the unit, Sharron Kingston, the hydrotherapy assistant added: “The feedback we’ve had from patients has been amazing so far – they love it! We even struggle getting them back out of the water. The building is used to help a wide range of people, from as young as one year old to the elderly and those with learning difficulties too”.

Plus, the new location is getting great feedback. Helen Williams, the physiotherapy outpatients team leader said: “It’s an added bonus that we now have the hydro pool at Dene Barton Hospital too as both departments naturally work well together given the majority of the people we see are physiotherapy outpatients”.

Our managing director Marcus Sutcliffe added: “Our capability in the healthcare sector keeps getting stronger and stronger, and this latest project is another impressive string to our bow. Creating a modular building with a built-in pool was a new challenge for us, and we are very proud of the final result.”