Home / Health / Young patients too often restrained, watchdog finds
Young patients too often restrained, watchdog finds
6 May
Summary
- Young people often restrained and secluded in mental health wards.
- CQC downgraded three wards to 'requires improvement' overall.
- Action plans to reduce restraint had failed, incidents increased.
A recent report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has revealed that young people in mental health wards are frequently subjected to restraint and seclusion. Marlborough House in Swindon and two wards at Warneford Hospital in Oxfordshire have had their overall ratings downgraded from 'good' to 'requires improvement' following an unannounced inspection in November 2025.
Despite a trust-wide focus on reducing restrictive interventions, the CQC found that implemented action plans had not been effective, and incidents of restraint and seclusion had increased. The watchdog noted that restraint and seclusion were not always used as a last resort to prevent harm, and records did not consistently show efforts to de-escalate situations or offer therapeutic interventions beforehand. Patients reported negative experiences and a lack of involvement in their care plans.
However, the trust was still rated as 'good' in areas such as the positive interactions between staff and young people, and the availability of a wide range of care and treatment options. These positive aspects included access to specialists and therapies like music and animal therapy. Patients also reported being supported by experienced and knowledgeable staff who treated them with dignity and respect.
