A report by the Mental Health Act Commission (MHAC) has found that patients with complex mental health needs in South West Wales are provided with a high quality of care by Hywel Dda NHS Trust.
As part of their mission to safeguard the interests of people detained under the Mental Health Act Commissioners visited wards in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire, speaking to staff, patients and relatives as well as the Carmarthen Bi-Polar Service User Group, representatives from the Trust Board and representatives from Healthcare Inspectorate Wales.
Their report found that staff working in mental health across the Trust demonstrated
‘outstanding professionalism’ and provided impressive standards of care.
Commissioners found that the ‘overwhelming majority’ of patients were happy with the care and facilities available, and the small numbers of matters raised were largely resolved with ward staff at the time of the visit.
The report did, however, highlight some areas for further improvement including the development of daytime activities in some areas, redecoration of some wards, and closer working with partners in Local Authorities and Local Health Boards in order to further reduce the number of delayed transfers of care.
The Trust says it will now tackle these areas as a priority, although much work has already been addressed.
Hywel Dda NHS Trust’s Head of Nursing for Mental Health Andrea Higgins said: “We are delighted that the report has recognised the priority this Trust places on safeguarding the interests of mental health patients and providing them with the best possible care and facilities. It is also particularly pleasing to note that the professionalism and dedicated of staff has been recognised.
“However, we are not complacent and will now use the report in order to inform further improvements and developments.”
To access the Mental Health Act Commission website please visit: http://www.mhac.org.uk/
For more information on Hywel Dda Trust please go to: http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sites3/home.cfm?orgid=808