There were 15 patients accommodated at the unit on the day of inspection. The manager of the unit was absent and the acting manager was not working. We spoke with the nurse in charge who was supported by a matron from another part of the Trust.

Patients were treated with dignity and respect and were involved in decisions and able to make choices. One patient told us, “Staff show me a healthy amount of respect.” We saw that patient’s privacy was maintained and staff communicated with patients in a respectful and considerate manner.

Patient’s needs were assessed and support was planned and delivered to meet their needs. One patient told us, “There is plenty to do, knitting, painting, sewing, drawing.” Another patient said, “I saw the doctor yesterday and I feel very confident with what he said.”

The trust had suitable arrangements in place to safeguard people from abuse and staff were aware of these procedures. However, staff were not aware of the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. Patients told us there was enough staff to meet their needs. One patient said, “The staff are always on the go but you never have to wait long for things.”

Records were accurately completed and safely stored.

The trust undertook some quality monitoring activity. However, there was no overview of the quality of the services provided at the unit as relevant information was not effectively assessed or collated.