Mental Health Wards Drop to 'Requires Improvement' Rating

Mental health wards for older people at Fulbourn Hospital and the Cavell Centre, operated by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust (CPFT), have seen their rating reduced to 'requires improvement'. This change follows an inspection conducted in January, which revealed a decline from a previous 'good' rating. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) cited inadequate leadership oversight of certain risks, including safeguarding protocols, as a primary concern.

Inspectors noted specific issues such as insufficient staff training in medicines management and concerns regarding the safe recording and storage of medications. Additionally, persistent false alarms on Willow ward contributed to patient unrest. Many staff expressed feeling stretched thin, unable to provide consistent one-to-one care. Despite these findings, the CQC acknowledged the services were rated as good for effectiveness, care, and responsiveness, with positive feedback from relatives regarding staff support and de-escalation of distressed patients.