Enter and view: Willow Ward, Bridgwater

Healthwatch Somerset carried out an enter and view visit to Willow Ward, Bridgwater on 27 January 2016 to understand patients’ experiences of the inpatient mental health rehabilitation service and identify examples of good practice. There were eight patients on the ward at the time of the visit. Healthwatch spoke with the ward manager, acting ward manager and a member of staff, and also spoke with three patients during lunch.

The visit found Willow Ward to provide a supportive, recovery-focused environment that emphasised independence, social inclusion and preparation for life in the community. Patients were encouraged to develop practical living skills through activities such as cooking, budgeting, laundry, volunteering and community participation. Healthwatch highlighted good practice including peer buddying for new patients, regular patient meetings, weekly advocacy visits and personalised care planning. 

Staff were observed treating patients with kindness, respect and professionalism. The ward offered a wide range of therapeutic and leisure activities, including walking groups, fishing trips, gym access, holistic therapies and volunteering opportunities. Healthwatch also noted the positive environment, good access to information and strong links with local community services, colleges and support organisations.

Healthwatch concluded that patients received appropriate, safe care and support on Willow Ward. Recommendations included displaying Healthwatch information on the ward, reviewing opportunities for patient involvement, sharing ideas for activities, improving the nutritional quality of meals provided, introducing clearer staff identification information, and consulting patients and staff about whether uniforms should be worn when supporting patients in the community.