This was a joint unannounced inspection carried out with the Mental Health Act Commissioners and an expert by experience. We spoke with 17 patients, 11 members of staff, two relatives and senior representatives of the Trust.

We found there was a difference in the quality of care provided on the different wards. On Rowan and Maple Wards patients told us about the kindness of the staff, their involvement in their treatment and the therapeutic activities available. One patient told us “I have a care plan, which I’ve signed and contributed to” another patient said “I was pleased to have been given details of my medication and the possible side effects”. On Larch Ward patients did not always feel so supported. Patients told us "Some staff are good and you can ask for help but others don't have time to listen and ignore requests for help" and "My dignity is respected but would like staff to remember to knock before entering my room". All of the patients told us that they felt safe at the hospital and told us they felt they could raise any concerns with the staff confident they would be acted upon.

There were training and support opportunities made available to staff however these had not been well documented. Staff told us that they felt supported by their line manager and the Trust. We noted that the staffing rotas did not provide assurance there was always sufficient staff on duty. There were systems and processes in place to monitor and audit the quality of care provided.