We rated Mildmay Oaks Independent Hospital as requires improvement because:

• Agency staff were not trained to the standard set out in the staff training policy. We did not know how many agency staff this affected because the training records were not up to date.
• Staff did not receive training which met patients’ needs.
• Staff were not receiving regular supervision and support.
• Patients on Winchfield ward were not protected from the risk of adverse side effects from medicines that were administered as the provider was not following its own protocol or national guidance post use of rapid tranquilisation.
• Patients on Winchfield ward were not protected from the risks associated with blind spots which were not mitigated.
• Ligature risk assessment management plans were generic and not detailed.
• The clinic room on Winchfield ward was not well maintained and not all emergency equipment and medication was available.
• The provider did not have a clear overview of the frequency of prone restraints.
• Patients’ property in the store room on Winchfield ward was not kept safe or looked after by staff.

However:

• Ward managers were able to adjust staffing levels when necessary to ensure patient safety and meet their needs appropriately.
• Patients had access to a range of psychological therapies. Therapies offered to patients were delivered on a one-to-one and group basis depending upon the needs of the patient.
• Patients were treated kindly by staff and felt involved in their care.
• The facilities promoted recovery, comfort and dignity and there was a good range of activities on and off the wards.
• Staff morale across the hospital was good and staff felt supported by the senior team.
• Learning from incidents was shared with staff. Incidents were discussed at clinical governance and health and safety meetings and the learning was shared with staff teams.