Help in a crisis and visiting information during the COVID-19 pandemic
During this COVID-19 pandemic there may be changes in the way some of our services work. Contact the service directly to check how services are being delivered and follow their advice.
Some of our services now offer video consultations. You should speak to your clinician if this is something you would like them to consider. You can find out more about video consultation here.
Visiting
Contact the ward you wish to visit in advance for guidance and instructions for a safe visit.
If you need help in a mental health crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic outside office hours please contact our crisis team: Help in a crisis
For other medical advice and support contact your GP or visit NHS 111
Only visit your local Emergency Department for serious life-threatening conditions that need immediate medical attention including persistent severe chest pain, loss of consciousness, acute confused state, severe breathlessness, severe blood loss, serious burns or suspected stroke.
Wathwood Hospital
We provide medium secure inpatient services to male adult patients with mental disorder
We offer assessment, treatment and rehabilitation. We aim to reduce the distress associated with mental health problems and promote recovery.
We work to reduce the risks associated with our patient group and tailor treatment to meet each patient's needs. We are dedicated to achieving the highest standards of patient care.
Our model of care involves:
- establishing effective, sustained therapeutic relationships
- problem solving
- positive role modelling
- structured therapy programmes
We also offer a range of sporting, leisure, educational and vocational activities and are a recognised Recovery College campus.
Accessing our services
You will only be admitted to Wathwood Hospital if you are referred by a professional.
Referrals come from:
- courts
- prisons
- secure hospitals
- general mental health services
- independent sector hospitals
On site facilities
The Hospital has a farm shop within its grounds. This is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays.
There is a shop within the Hospital which is open for two hours a day, Monday to Friday only.
There is a general store just beyond the top of the Hospital drive. This is open 6.00am – 10.00pm.
Visiting Information
You will need to book your visit to Wathwood Hospital at least 24 hours in advance though the relevant ward/service.
Children and young people under the age of 18 are unable to visit without prior authorisation. The process of obtaining authorisation for a child or young person to visit will be explained on request.

Social visitors
Social visits can take place on any day of the week.
- Monday to Friday, 6pm to 8pm.
- Saturday and Sunday. 3pm to 5pm.
Visits outside of these times can be arranged on request.
Professional visitors
Professional visits must be requested in advance. Usually they cannot take place between 12.00 noon – 2pm and 5pm – 6pm or after 8pm due to protected time for patients.
All visitors are required to report to the Main Reception.
Professional and social visitors must provide two forms of ID; one should be photo ID. All visitors will require registration on the Hospital visitors' database.
Restrictions
Due to the secure environment of Wathwood Hospital and the need to maintain the safety of everyone, certain items will not be allowed into the clinical area.
Lockers are available in the reception foyer to hold any restricted items; for example, mobile phones, cigarettes and lighters.
Contact and find us
Tel: 01709 870 800
Wathwood Hospital
Gipsy Green Lane
Wath-Upon-Dearne
Rotherham
South Yorkshire
S63 7TQ
Getting here
By car
Parking
Visitor parking is available on site. Some spaces are for use by blue badge holders only.
By bus
The nearest bus station is in Wath-upon-Dearne town centre. There is also a bus station in Rotherham with a service to Wath-upon-Dearne.
By train
The nearest train station is Swinton (South Yorkshire). Train stations in Rotherham and Meadow Hall also offer easy access to the Hospital.
For help planning your journey please visit www.traveline.info.
Further information
Local taxi numbers:
- Fona Car: 01709 588 885
- Gemini: 01709 581 944
- Ivanhoe taxis: 01709 589999
Help in a crisis
Main Switchboard: 01709 870 800.
Information for health professionals
How to refer someone to this service
Referrals to:
Dr E Mendelson
Clinical Director
Wathwood Hospital
Gipsy Green Lane
Wath-upon-Dearne
Rotherham
S63 7TQ
Tel: 01709 870 800
Lead clinician
Dr Eric Mendelson
Service commissioned by
NHS England, Midlands and East (East Midlands Hub)