Chapman Barker Unit

The Chapman Barker Unit (CBU) is a specialist inpatient drug and alcohol detoxification service based on the Prestwich Hospital site in Greater Manchester and is part of the Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH).

The unit provides 34 beds for adults aged 18 and over who require a safe, structured environment to withdraw from alcohol or substances. CBU is recognised for supporting people with complex physical, mental health, and social needs, offering a level of expertise suitable for individuals who require intensive medical and therapeutic intervention during detox.

CBU delivers both planned inpatient detox programmes and rapid-access admissions through the RADAR pathway, which supports people referred directly from Greater Manchester emergency departments for urgent alcohol detox.

Patients are supported by a skilled multi‑disciplinary team, including nurses, medical staff, therapists, social workers, and recovery practitioners. The service offers a full therapeutic programme, including group work, motivational interventions, and one‑to‑one support designed to help individuals stabilise, build insight, and prepare for ongoing community-based recovery.

The unit has built a strong reputation for compassionate, person‑centred care, and feedback often highlights the supportive environment and staff attentiveness. Currently rated as ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, it provides 24-hour medical and nursing supervision for service users with complex physical and mental health needs. As a mental health site, this clinical support extends to an out-of-hours consultant on call and access to other mental health clinical expertise.

CBU accepts referrals from healthcare professionals, including community key workers and hospital services. 

GMMH were the founding member of the NHS Addictions Provider Alliance Inpatient Network and, in being so, have set the standard for what safe and effective care looks like for other providers.  

Call 01613 582 090 or 07539 745 812.