Archived: Severn Street

We do not currently rate independent standalone substance misuse services.

We found the following issues that the service provider needs to improve:

• Clients did not have keys to their bedroom doors and some bedroom door locks appeared to be damaged.

• The property was in need of refurbishment, we observed that the window in one vacant bedroom was painted shut and there were ceiling tiles made of what looked like combustible material on the majority of the ceilings which may pose a fire risk.

• Patients were concerned about safety of their personal belongings.

• Client’s food was not stored in the fridge correctly and fridge temperatures were not monitored.

• There was mould on the bathroom tiles and no mattress covers which was an infection control risk.

• The lone worker policy was not clear with regard to how a lone worker or clients could access support if they were the only staff on shift.

• It was clear from the incident and accident report book that not all incidents had been reported to CQC that should have been.Managers need to ensure that all incidents are appropriately reported to the relevant authorities.

• Staff did not follow best practice in recording the administration of medication on medication administration record sheets meaning that medication errors could easily be made.

• The provider’s policy on storing clients’ money and mobile telephones meant that they could not access them in the event of early discharge at evenings and weekends.

• There was no information readily available in other languages or braille.

However, we also found the following areas of good practice:

• All care records contained up to date risk assessment and person centred recovery orientated care plans.

• All information needed to deliver care was stored securely and readily available to staff when they needed it.

• Staff we spoke with were passionate about their work and clients told us they felt safe and were treated with dignity and respect.

• Staff at Severn Street had been trained in medication management using Royal College of General Psychiatry online training. Competency tests were carried out by the qualified nurse at PCP Leicester.

• Staff used recognised outcome measures to monitor severity of withdrawal.

• Staff supported clients with interventions to help them access move on accommodation and benefits.

• Staff we spoke with told us that they received an appropriate induction.Staff files supported this.

• Staff received regular supervision on a quarterly basis and annual appraisal in line with the provider’s policy.

• Staff received specialist training for their role including specialist training in working with people who have misused substances.

• Staff knew how to access emergency physical and mental healthcare treatment for clients if necessary via the local NHS walk in clinic, A&E or mental health crisis team.