Enter and view: St Andrews Ward, Wells
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Healthwatch Somerset carried out an enter and view visit to St Andrews Ward in Wells on 24 March 2016 to understand patients’ experiences of the acute mental health inpatient service and identify examples of good practice. The ward provides assessment and treatment for adults experiencing acute mental health problems and had 14 beds. During the visit, Healthwatch spoke with the ward manager, staff and three patients, while observing care and the ward environment.
The visit found St Andrews Ward to be a clean, welcoming and well-maintained environment with a relaxed atmosphere, good outdoor space and a range of facilities, including activity rooms, an art room and communal areas. Patients described staff as supportive and approachable, and Healthwatch observed positive interactions between staff and patients throughout the visit. The ward also offered regular patient meetings, family liaison meetings, advocacy support and opportunities for patients to provide feedback.
Healthwatch highlighted the strong range of activities available, including art sessions, cooking activities, escorted community outings and the popular Breakfast Club. Patients valued opportunities to develop independence and social connections. Staff spoke positively about teamwork and management support, although some felt staffing levels were occasionally insufficient to manage unexpected incidents and complete administrative tasks promptly. Concerns were also raised about limited out-of-hours medical support, delays in securing suitable housing for patients ready for discharge, and difficulties accessing secure transport and ambulance services.
Healthwatch concluded that St Andrews Ward provided a supportive and suitable care environment with many examples of good practice. Recommendations included making Healthwatch information available on the ward, reviewing staffing levels regularly, strengthening out-of-hours support arrangements, and sharing ideas to further expand activity opportunities for patients.