Window Protector Case Study: Young People’s Mental Health Unit, Midlands

Background

At a specialist young people’s mental health unit in the Midlands, staff were dealing with repeated instances of window breakages in both internal and external facing areas. The 15-bed facility admits male and female patients with complex mental health needs, some of whom present difficult and challenging behaviours. The unit operates in a high-risk environment, and windows were being regularly smashed; not only from inside, but also by residents in the internal courtyard targeting the external glazing.

In one instance, a bedroom window had been boarded up entirely following damage, drastically reducing the amount of daylight entering the room and leaving staff desperate for a swift, effective fix.

The Challenges

Several key factors needed to be addressed for this project:

1. Persistent Window Breakages

Windows were being deliberately smashed by patients from both internally and externally across the ward. Existing solutions were not standing up to repeated impact, leading to frequent repairs and significant maintenance costs.

2. Loss of Light and Daytime Visibility

As a short-term measure, boarded-up windows blocked natural light entirely, which negatively impacted both patient wellbeing and the environment of care.

3. Vulnerability of Existing Infrastructure

The Trust had tried using blinds, but these were being pulled down and damaged. Any long-term fix had to eliminate fragile components that could be tampered with or used as a weapon.

4. Need for a Fast, Yet Tailored Response

With the ward under pressure, the estates officer requested a rapid solution in one of the worst-affected rooms - effectively a trial to test long-term suitability across the site.

Solution Implemented

Contour supplied two sample window protector units – one designed for internal fitting and one for external application – with both featuring a half-vision panel and half-grille design to match the original window layout.

Key features of the solution included:

High-impact polycarbonate vision panels offering visibility while absorbing repeated force thanks to their inherent flexibility.
External metal frames fitted using Pin Torx security screws to prevent tampering.
Bespoke grille + panel split to mimic the existing layout and reduce visual change for patients.
Adaptable installation that allows units to be added quickly in response to breakages or risk escalation.

The proposed long-term strategy includes the possibility of keeping a spare unit in stores, pre-sized to a standard configuration. This would allow the estates team to swap out broken windows with a professional, robust alternative in minutes; far preferable to boarding up with plywood.

Feedback from the Ward

Although the Trust initially had concerns about aesthetics and natural light levels, the comparison with previously boarded windows was stark. The polycarbonate panels allowed in significantly more daylight while providing a more secure, hygienic, and permanent solution.

Contour also offered to replace the internal trial unit with an upgraded version featuring an integral blind and vent, which would add privacy without compromising safety.

Staff highlighted that these protectors provided an additional barrier of protection in a volatile ward, offering peace of mind in what can be a rapidly escalating environment.

Conclusion

This project demonstrated Contour’s ability to respond quickly to urgent safety issues with bespoke, durable solutions tailored for high-risk environments. The modular nature of the protectors and their compatibility with varied window layouts means they can be rolled out rapidly across similar sites.

With improved durability, faster installation, and better outcomes for both patients and staff, the addition of polycarbonate window protectors provides a more sustainable approach to managing aggression-related damage in secure mental health settings.

Strengthen Your Safeguarding Strategy with Bespoke Window Protectors

Whether you’re managing persistent damage, security risks, or the need for a more robust long-term solution, Contour’s window protectors are designed to deliver. With options for internal and external mounting, vision-grille split panels, and custom configurations to suit sensitive environments, our protectors offer a durable, hygienic upgrade that supports patient wellbeing and staff safety.

Speak to our team today on +44 (0) 1952 290498, or email sales@contourheating.co.uk to discuss your project.