The Care Quality Commission has published the findings from a focused inspection of specialist eating disorders service at South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust
The inspection, which took place in August 2020 was in response to concerns that some staff did not understand how to care for patients with eating disorders including at mealtimes.
Full reports for the trust will be published on CQC’s website at the following link: www.cqc.org.uk/provider/RQY/reports
CQC’s Head of Hospital Inspection Jane Ray, said:
“South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust are aware of the concerns within their specialist eating disorders service and are working to ensure improvements are in place.
“A number of the concerns which had been raised to us were already being addressed such as the behaviours from some staff and insufficient support during meal times.
“The team know what further improvements are needed and will return to check that those improvements have been made at a later date”.
Inspectors found staff managed ligature risks to patients; they knew where those were within the wards and managed them effectively. Staff undertook checks on patients’ physical health and raised concerns when required.
The majority of staff treated patients with compassion and kindness with patients and family members describing particular staff in very positive terms. However, patients also reported that a small number of staff had been rude and on occasion had shouted at them, this included at mealtimes. Managers were aware of this and working to improve staff engagement with patients. It was also taking steps to address poor and unprofessional behaviour by specific staff.
Patients and their carers were encouraged to discuss their concerns with managers and the service treated those concerns and complaints seriously. They were investigated and feedback was given.
Some of the concerns that prompted CQC to inspect included incorrect portion sizes sometimes given and on occasion meals ordered being replaced due to error or unavailability without the patient being informed in advance. Ward staff had only raised this to the catering contractor on one occasion.
Patients told inspectors some staff were unhelpful at supporting them during mealtimes and while a training course on therapeutic eating had been set up, the service had not kept records of attendance. There was only limited support from a qualified dietitian to assist staff due to temporary maternity leave cover arrangements.
Ends
For media enquiries, call Regional Engagement Manager, John Scott on 07789875809. For media enquiries about the Care Quality Commission, please call the press office on 020 7448 9401 during office hours. Journalists wishing to speak to the press office outside of office hours can find out how to contact the team here www.cqc.org.uk/media/our-media-office (please note: the duty press officer is unable to advise members of the public on health or social care matters).
For general enquiries, please call 03000 61 61 61.