Enter and view: Ward 1, Mary Seacole House
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Healthwatch Birmingham undertook an “Enter and View” visit to Ward 1 at Mary Seacole House on 24 February 2014, undertaken to review improvements since a previous 2013 visit and to assess patient experience.
Overall, the findings were positive. Patients interviewed spoke favourably about staff, the ward environment, and the quality of food. Care planning and risk assessments were well documented, up to date, and involved patients, with clear recording of consent. The ward environment had improved, with en-suite bedrooms, better ventilation, enhanced safety features, and accessible outdoor space.
In terms of safety and safeguarding, staff were appropriately trained in managing violence and aggression, and patients reported feeling safe on the ward. Information about advocacy and support services was readily available, and patients could access these services in a timely way.
Staffing levels were structured with a mix of qualified nurses, nursing assistants, and leadership roles, and recent changes had improved shift patterns. Staff also supported patient recovery through activities and occupational therapy, helping prepare patients for discharge and maintain community links. However, the ward continued to operate above recommended occupancy levels, partly due to patients on leave, which remained a concern despite some improvement since 2013.
The ward demonstrated strong systems for monitoring quality and patient experience, including regular patient forums, real-time feedback collection, audits, and inspections. These processes were used to inform service improvements.
The report concluded that the ward had effective management, high staff morale, and a positive patient experience overall. Improvements had been made since the previous visit, particularly in staffing arrangements and governance processes. However, high bed occupancy remained an ongoing issue.
The main recommendation was that staff should have regular access to a vehicle to support community-based activities for patients, which could be shared across wards.