Ducks Halt is an Independent Hospital Rehabilitation Unit for the assessment and treatment of clients with learning disabilities and mental health needs.

The unit admits male clients between the ages of 18 and 65 detained either under the Mental Health Act 1983 or on an informal basis.

As a smaller rehabilitation facility the unit offers a homely environment, and as such patients are encouraged to carry out household and domestic chores.  The unit also enables them to prepare their own meals on a daily basis if they so wish.

Ducks Halt offers a range of in-house and community activities, including horticulture, literacy and numeracy, team games, horse riding and college attendance.

Ducks Halt is a chalet-style building, comprising two floors with all patient facilities provided on the ground floor.

The unit consists of five bedrooms. In addition there is a lounge, dining room and utility room, where patients can host visitors and attend meetings. Outside and to the rear of the building there is a large garden, while to the front of the building there are car park facilities.

The unit is situated in the hamlet of Kirby Le Soken, in North East Essex, and is approximately two miles from the seaside resort of Walton-on-the-Naze. This seaside town has many amenities. There are even more at tranquil Frinton-on-Sea, with its long sandy beaches.

Admissions criteria

Ducks Halt admits males aged 18-65 with a diagnosis of learning disability or brain injury, who may also suffer from mental illness, personality disorder or challenging behaviour.

In addition, patients may require highly specialised treatment and care, possibly for extended periods of time. Some of our patients have a forensic history, and may or may not be detained under the Mental Health Act 1983 (sections 2,3,37,37/41).

Clinical team

Therapy is delivered by a multidisciplinary team including: consultant psychiatrist, associate specialist psychiatrist, registered nurses, psychologist, occupational therapist and social workers. Programmes are individually tailored and focused on assessment followed by treatment and intensive rehabilitation.