Home / Health / County Hospitals Earn Top Mental Health Rating
County Hospitals Earn Top Mental Health Rating
30 Sep
Summary
- Inpatient mental health care received outstanding ratings.
- Inspectors noted strong leadership and an innovative culture.
- Special attention given to neurodivergent patients' needs.
Inpatient mental health care provided at two county hospitals has been rated as outstanding overall following an inspection conducted in July. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessed acute wards for working-age adults and psychiatric intensive care units at St Mary's Hospital in Kettering and Berrywood Hospital in Northampton.
The Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, which oversees these services, also received an outstanding rating for its effectiveness and leadership. Inspectors found a robust leadership team that fostered a culture of learning and openness, contributing to enhanced patient outcomes.
The CQC noted that staff effectively recognized the integral relationship between physical and mental health, proactively identifying risks to prevent patient deterioration. Innovation was evident, with staff demonstrating a clear understanding of their responsibilities under key mental health legislation. Furthermore, specialized environments and resources, such as sensory rooms, were implemented to support neurodivergent patients, promoting inclusion and reducing distress.
