Dorset HealthCare took the decision to close Forston Clinic’s Minterne Ward to inpatients in early December, following the inspection by the CQC, until all of the issues raised had been addressed and resolved. This has now happened and the Trust is re-opening the ward - which has been renamed the Waterston Assessment Unit - to patients from 23 April 2013.

Waterston still operates  the same functions as Minterne- offering comprehensive assessments for both male and female service users (although in separate areas) enabling them to have shorter stays in hospital and develop clear plans- but these are now carried out by more staff, who have received intensive training in a £1million refurbished ward.

Waterston is a 13 bed unit which provides care within a protective environment for adults.

Services Area

North and West Dorset

Opening Hours

24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year

Visiting Times

Open Visiting from 13.00 - 20.00

Please phone the ward office to check the person you are visiting is free when you plan to arrive.

Please note that children (those under 16 years old) are not allowed onto Waterston Ward.

Children are welcome to visit the Forston site and use the general facilities, but must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult at all times. A family visiting room is available with a range of facilities.