Older people’s mental health wards rated ‘good’

Wards for older people at a north London mental health trust have been rated ‘good’ overall by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Wards for older people with mental health problems at North East London NHS Foundation Trust were rated ‘good’ for being safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led following an inspection in August 2017.

At a previous inspection last year, CQC found the trust was in breach of regulations relating to safety, dignity and respect, and staffing. However, at the most recent inspection, inspectors found the trust had taken appropriate action to improve the service.

There was a robust system in place to reduce the risk of falls; patients were now able to access their bedrooms at any time they wished; the trust had improved ward premises; and the wards had been redecorated. New furniture had been bought and the risk to patients from potential ligature points reduced. Patients on all wards now all had easily accessible call bells to alert staff if they needed support.

Staff assessed patients in relation to their physical and mental health when they were admitted to the ward, and screened patients for risks in relation to falls, skin care, continence and nutrition.

Staff checked the physical health of patients each day and took action to address any deterioration in the patient’s health. Patients were encouraged to be as independent as possible, and there was a range of activities available.

However, patients on some wards were accommodated in shared bedroom areas which compromised their privacy and dignity.

Paul Lelliott, Deputy Chief Inspector and lead for mental health, said: “The trust is to be commended for taking action to improve the quality if its wards for older people with mental health problems. We have now rated them as ‘good’ for each of the five key questions that we assess.

“Staff were kind and caring. They were able to communicate well with older frail people. They welcomed carers onto the wards and gave them appropriate support and advice.

“The trust has also made a number of improvements to the specialist community mental health services for children and young people. There are, however, further improvements that need to be made. Management and staff are aware of what needs to be done to achieve this.”