Enter and View: Ashurst Ward at Littlemore Mental Health Centre

Healthwatch Oxfordshire made an Enter and View visit to the Ashurst Ward at the Littlemore Mental Health Centre in Oxford in February 2026. 

The ward, run by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, is a men's psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU).

This visit was part of a programme of visits to a range of services within Oxfordshire. 

During this visit Healthwatch Oxfordshire spoke to 3 patients and 6 members of staff. 

Key findings

• The ward was easy to find, with secure entry and clear signage throughout.
• The environment was very clean, tidy and well‑maintained.
• The ward has 11 en‑suite bedrooms, communal lounge, a laundry room, an activity room and a garden.
• Patients reported feeling safe, well cared for and appreciative of the staff’s friendliness and approachability.
• Staff were friendly and open with patients, and there was a warm, supportive atmosphere throughout the ward.
• Team members felt well supported in their training and career development.

Recommendations

In its report, Healthwatch Oxfordshire made the following recommendations to Oxford Health:

• Install hearing loops in the ward to enhance accessibility for patients with hearing impairments
• Provide and display clear information on how people can access an interpreting service
• Continue to make effective use of any underspend to further enhance the quality of life for patients on the ward (for example, the sensory room).

Healthwatch Oxfordshire sent its report and recommendations to Oxford Health. The ward matron replied with a response to the suggested improvements.