I was there back in 2006/2007 but I can only assume it has changed since then (i think the families unit was shut down) but the main ethos is probably still the same.
It's a great place to make a change in life but the saying always was 'you get out as much as you put in'. Also, they loved to highlight people being uncommunicative, they want you to be very vocal. It's a good place, but i can't stress enough that you have to want to make a change. I regreat my time there, I was too young and lacked a lot of confidence and hence wasn't able to speak in groups, there are a LOT of groups. I liked the dance and movement therapy though.
You go home on the weekends as they like you to remain in touch with that aspect of life. When i was there they sent people on 'short leave' which is basically being sent home to think about what you have done that wasn't acceptable but they are very in touch with your needs. Some people were short leaved for self harm but that very rarely happened to me due to my very intense issues around rejection.
A lot of people acted out and I for one self harmed a fair bit whilst I was there. It helped me in the sense that I learnt how to communicate my needs and feelings and emotions, although I wasn't able to stop harming.
The patients take on a lot of responsibility and at night the (i can't remember what we were called :/) would hand over to the night staff. When I was there, there would be a member of staff sleeping at night and a night orderly awake.
Sorry I've rambled and it's been years since I was there! Feel free to ask any questions though.
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