Mental health rehabilitation wards in Hertfordshire rated "outstanding" by inspectors
The CQC highlighted the personalised care and kindness shown by staff
Inspectors have upgraded the rating for mental health rehabilitation wards run by Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, from "good" to "outstanding”.
These services cater to individuals with complex mental health challenges, aiding them in acquiring or regaining confidence and skills necessary for independent living. At the time of the inspection, these facilities supported 40 people.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection at The Beacon, Gainsford House, and Hampden House, was part of routine monitoring.
Inspectors praised the trust’s rehabilitation wards for being effective, caring, and well-led, whilst the service maintained a "good" rating for safety and responsiveness.
Stuart Dunn, CQC deputy director of mental health in the East of England, said: “We found the trust’s rehabilitation wards exceptional. People told us they felt safe and staff were kind and went out of their way to help them.
“They empowered people to set and pursue their own goals and encouraged them to gain as much independence as possible.
“The staff worked closely with people in their care, their loved ones, and with other healthcare professionals to personalise people’s care to their unique needs, strengths, and goals.
“Staff supported people to develop daily life skills and to recognise and prevent relapses in their mental health.”
The inspection noted that staff manage risks effectively, protect privacy, and maintain dignified relationships between patients and their communities.
Mr Dunn added: “Everyone working for the service understood and respected the rights of the people in their care, including those detained under the Mental Health Act or who had limited mental capacity.
“They helped people understand these rights themselves, respected their consent, and provided treatment based on the latest national guidance and best practices.
“This was made possible by skilled and knowledgeable leaders, who supported their staff well and used feedback from everyone working and living in the service to drive improvements.
“Everyone working in these services should be proud of the care they provide. We hope other services can look to this report for useful examples of outstanding practice.”