We visited the Vascular Studies Unit at Wythenshawe Hospital on 12 February 2013. We saw that the relevant policies and procedures were in place and there was evidence that they were reviewed and updated annually.

There was a range of information available for patients and we observed patients being treated with respect and courtesy. We saw that capacity was considered and verbal consent to treatment was always sought.

We spoke with four patients on the unit. One patient said “The staff are polite and respectful.” Another patient said “I have been to different hospitals and different departments and this is the smoothest process.” A third patient told us “The staff have been pretty good here, I have no complaints at present.”

We saw that post graduate trainees were employed and supported through a training period after which, if successful, they would gain accreditation. We observed robust recruitment and induction processes and saw that support, training and professional development were ongoing.

We saw safeguarding policies and procedures and staff demonstrated an awareness of safeguarding and mental capacity and consent issues.

We saw that patient feedback was regularly sought and the results analysed and changes made to try to improve the service delivery. We saw the complaints procedure, which was available to all patients and outlined on a poster in the waiting room. We saw evidence that complaints were followed up appropriately.