New Melton Hospital Community Consultation Report - What we heard

Accessibility

• accessible for all abilities and by all modes of transport
• an entrance that is free of cars and other obstacles
• pedestrian only pathways with clear links to public transport and the broader precinct
• dedicated parking/ drop off zones for disability, emergency and maternity
• Travellers Aid to assist with public transport arrivals and departures.

Safety

• external lighting
• protected walkways
• need to feel safe at all hours.

Precinct connectivity

• well connected to other services in the precinct through pathways, public transport options
• signage consistent with precinct signage
• hospital should be a gateway to the precinct – connecting the precinct together.

Technology use

• multilingual digital navigation tools
• electronic directories and interactive kiosks for information and maps at entrance.

Wayfinding and signage

• intuitive and simple signage
• multilingual and symbolic to reflect the diverse community
• colour-coding or themes in wayfinding and placemaking
• key points of reference in hospital through placemaking (such as gardens or artwork)
• easy sight lines to your next destination
• consider future expansion
• information desks are highly visible at transition points – e.g. the lifts
• utilise volunteers and interpreters for help and wayfinding.

Layout

• consider placement of complementary services near each other
• place most utilised services closest to the main entry
• amenity areas with clearly defined toilets, cafes, prayer and shared spaces.

• use of earthy colours for calm feel and connection to local landscape
• use of symbols to reflect safe spaces
• multilingual signage and information
• importance of friendly-face ‘meet and greet’ on arrival
• nature and the outdoors, including places to connect with land and country
• First Nations artwork and local artifacts
• spaces for cultural and spiritual activities.

• natural, calming colours to connect to local landscape
• modern, bright and open
• uncluttered and spacious
• greenery and soft landscaping
• natural light
• connection to the outdoors with access to gardens and green spaces
• views to landscaped areas outside
• use of modern technology
• variety of comfortable seating and waiting spaces
• separation of waiting spaces for privacy
• dedicated spaces for children and families
• interactive activities for children.

• First Nations artwork and displays of local artifacts to acknowledge the culture and heritage of the area
• mix of mediums for interest including interactive, digital, light and sound displays
• incorporation of natural elements such as calming colours, soft materials and water for a soothing environment
• engagement with local community, local artists, art groups, and schools to involve them in the creation and selection of artwork
• utilisation of the hospital exterior for artwork
• use artwork to enhance wayfinding and create landmarks for meeting points.

• use a variety of durable landscaping materials for visual interest
• use of cultural and native plants in gardens
• child-friendly spaces such as playgrounds and open grassy areas for running
• provide shady, all-weather or undercover spaces for outdoor use
• accessible for all individuals
• incorporate spaces for cultural activities such as yarning circles
• use landscaping to enhance wayfinding and create landmarks for meeting points
• utilise views and gardens on upper levels
• incorporate greenery into the building façades
• leisure/ sport facilities such as half basketball court or tennis court to increase activity and decrease agitation
• address local conditions and suitability for climate and seasons.

• dedicated spaces for First Nations staff
• ceremonial spaces and a multipurpose room for cultural activities
• importance of private and culturally safe conversations
• consideration of nature, outdoor areas, and connections to land and country
• privacy requirements, especially in maternal, mental health and children’s health
• spaces accommodating family members and communities comfortably and safely
• hospitals as spaces to visit for non-medical reasons and community events
• place for community education, awareness, and training.

Use of language

• naming selected spaces with First Nations names and engaging with Traditional Owners for cultural appropriateness and meaning.

Art

• including First Nations art in consultation with Traditional Owners, in the foyer/entrance to acknowledge cultural space and support navigation
• sensory experiences with traditional materials
• display of traditional medicines
• involvement of First Nations people and businesses in procurement.

• safe integration with hospital and transport, including good lighting
• safe journey to car parks
• using Aboriginal symbols for wayfinding
• facilities for those in custody and prisoners
• partnerships with local communities.

• importance of staff members who can relate to patients with mental health issues
• diversity training
• staff/volunteers trained to identify distress signs.

• private and discreet areas for mental health patients seeking treatment
• separate quiet areas and respectful signage are important considerations
• avoiding clinical feeling spaces by using natural light and calming elements like sensory gardens and water features
• using colours and art to create a positive atmosphere and connection with the community
• creating a warm and friendly environment.

• accessibility for different modes of transport
• consideration of free parking, better roads, and wide footpaths for a more accessible hospital.

• large signs, clear instructions, and multilingual support
• accessible transport options and connections
• seamless and easy parking facilities, including separate public and staff parking
• surroundings that flow indoors and outdoors, with access to pathways and nearby amenities.

• grab rails for support
• separate smoking areas
• parent rooms for families
• quiet areas and sound-proof rooms
• prayer and contemplation spaces for all religions.

• open and spacious waiting areas with high ceilings and natural lighting
• avoiding clinical-feeling spaces in communal areas
• incorporating gardens and natural elements for a relaxing environment
• wide corridors and double-door entrances for ease of movement
• artwork that captures Melton’s history, landscape, flora, fauna, and indigenous elements.

• infrastructure for disabled people, including wheelchair access
• touch information screens and kiosks for easy access to information
• colour coordination of signage, seating, and other elements
• providing easy-to-digest and culturally accessible information
• after-hours access with security and well-trained staff
• open spaces for clear visibility.

• consider providing a childcare facility for staff
• entertaining options for children, such as outdoor playgrounds or indoor play areas
• art stations for children.
• prayer rooms for all religions to promote inclusivity.

• parking facilities and designated drop-off/pick-up areas
• clear signage and colour-coded flooring for easy navigation
• open,spacious, and well-lit waiting areas with high ceilings and greenery.