17 June 2025
Summary:
In partnership with Hertfordshire County Council and Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, we have opened new accommodation in Harpenden to support residents with mental health needs as they leave hospital.
The Stewarts will provide 14 individual bedrooms with private en suites to individuals who have left hospital and are being supported to become as independent as possible by building and refreshing their skills in a supportive, modern environment.
Hertfordshire County Council and HPFT have invested around £4.5m in the project, working in collaboration with LSI Architects and Mulalley Contractors to fully renovate a formerly disused county council property in Harpenden. When it opens to residents, MTVH will manage the accommodation, which will bridge the gap between inpatient care and full independence in the community.
The service will improve the outcomes and recovery for people leaving mental health hospitals through a ‘intensive enablement’ support service that is tailored to each individual.
Residents with lived experience have been consulted on the design of the accommodation which includes a nature-filled outdoor space, multipurpose living areas, and fully accessible en suite bedrooms.
At an event on Friday 13 June, leaders from each organisation came together to officially open The Stewarts.
Kush Rawal, Executive Director of Services, MTVH said:
“At MTVH, our mission is to ensure that everyone has the chance to have a home and live well. We’re proud to provide housing and support services that enhance the quality of life for people and communities. The opening of The Stewarts in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council and Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust is a collaboration that will play a crucial role to help individuals move to independent living. We’re excited to see the positive impact it will have on residents’ lives.”
Cllr Sally Symington, Executive Member for Adult Care Services at Hertfordshire County Council, said:
“The Stewarts will have an immeasurable impact on residents who are ready to leave hospital and continue their treatment in a supportive setting that will build their skills as they move towards full independence in the community. The collaboration between health and social care organisations in Hertfordshire goes from strength to strength with the opening of this accommodation.”