- Independent mental health service
The Priory Hospital Dewsbury
Report from 17 December 2024 assessment
Contents
Ratings - Wards for older people with mental health problems
Our view of the service
We rated the service as good. The service had made improvements and was no longer in breach of regulations. The service oversees the cleanliness and maintenance of the hospital. All staff had easy access to electronic patient record systems. The service had ensured that any blanket restrictions applied to patients were done so on an individually risk assessed basis, in line with the Mental Health Act Code of Practice and that a blanket restrictions register was kept and reviewed locally. There was evidence that lessons learnt from incidents and complaints were recorded and shared to improve services, and that trends and themes on the ward were clearly identified and effectively addressed. The service ensured that staff records relating to training and appraisals were kept up to date and were accurate. Structured meetings had been embedded at both hospital and ward level to disseminate information throughout the hospital. The environment and facilities on Jubilee ward were dementia friendly by having installed a sensory wall and a well-furnished reminiscence room, for use by patients and visitors, which met the needs of the patient group. The service ensured that patients’ privacy and comfort was maintained when staff carried out observations during the night.
People's experience of this service
We spoke with 3 patients whilst on the ward and although their conversations were limited due to their diagnosis of dementia the majority told us they felt safe. We were also told that the ward was cleaned and that there were always nursing staff around. Patients told us they liked the food. Most patients told us they had a care plan in place, but a copy was held in the nursing office, and most did not think they had been restrained or forcibly given medication. Some patients did request more activities or “something to do”.
We spoke with 3 carers during our visit, and their feedback was positive. They told us that the ward felt safe, was clean and well maintained and that there were plenty of staff around. Family members told us that they were happy with the care that their loved ones received and voiced that the staff were caring and compassionate. All family members that we spoke with felt confident to raise concerns should they need to and voiced that information about their family member was shared with them appropriately. They also told us that if they could not attend meetings, they were invited to, someone was always available to speak with as an alternative. We were told that if family members could not attend meetings in person, then they could attend virtually.