Enter and view: East London Foundation Trust Mental Health Wards - Ruth Siefert Ward

Healthwatch Hackney visited Ruth Seifert ward to evaluate the health care, focusing on patient experience, staff feedback, and overall ward conditions. During the visit, they spoke to 7 patients (50% of the patients on the ward) who ranged between the ages of 20 and 64. They also spoke to the Ward Matron and four staff members: one Nursing Assistant, one Nurse, one Domestic, and one Health Care Assistant.

Overall, there is a generally positive view of the ward environment and the care provided, albeit tempered by individual preferences. The patients consistently describe the ward as “chilled” “quiet”, “calm” and “safe”. Staff are often referred to as “approachable”, which contributes to patients’ sense of safety and wellbeing. 

Almost all patients shared that they feel heard by staff and are treated with respect and dignity. Given the ethnic diversity of the ward, this positive feedback is a testament to staff’s effort in proving culturally appropriate care. 

Patients are generally satisfied with visiting times and appreciate the flexibility in accommodating visitors who work. 

The ward enjoys dedicated staff and proactively offers occupational therapy leave to support diverse and enriching activities. Many patients shared willingness to participate in these activities and enjoyment in doing so.

The ward shows a proactive and inclusive approach to assessing and meeting patients' cultural and religious needs. Overall, most patients felt their needs were well cared for, while the few who disagreed were not able or did not want to provide additional details. 

Patients shared mixed opinions about food. While some appreciate the various food options offered, others were dissatisfied with food quality and preferred alternative options such as home-made meals or food bought outside. 

Patients are aware of the smoking and vaping policies and generally comply, indicating that they are satisfied with the current arrangements.

All patients said that they have access to the internet and a mobile device but not all are satisfied with the speed of the WiFi.

Overall, patients generally understand their care plans and families are involved as the patients wish. However, there is confusion about the discharge process, due to lack of coordination with the community team. 

The ward has established mechanisms for patients to provide feedback and make complaints. While some patients are aware and feel capable of using these mechanisms, others do not feel as informed. 

The ward's proactive approach through informative posters and staff referrals demonstrates efforts to support patient needs in advocacy and benefits advice. However, patient experiences and feedback vary. Some patients shared they have access and find the services useful, while others encounter challenges in accessing or utilising independent advocacy and benefits advice effectively.

While most staff feel staffing levels are adequate, concerns were shared about workload, insufficient training, and less-than-ideal working conditions. There's a need to address these issues to prevent burnout and enhance staff well-being. 

The ward matron expressed a desire for better communication with, and more frequent visits from care coordinators. Improving this relationship could enhance continuity of care and patient outcomes. 

Although efforts are made to maintain a pleasant environment, there are ongoing issues with the conditions of toilets and occasional reports of mice, affecting patient comfort and hygiene standards.