Bedford Borough Conservative Councillor Roger Rigby has questioned healthcare providers about the suitability of the premises at Bedford Hospital’s Weller Wing.  The facility, which has three wards dedicated to patients with mental health conditions, was deemed to require improvements by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following an inspection in December of last year.

The South Essex Partnership Trust (SEPT), service provider at Weller Wing, reported to the Council’s Adult Services and Health Committee on Tuesday evening (20th May).  Cllr Rigby took this opportunity to ask what progress had been made in improving the premises to ensure patient safety and privacy.

Cllr Rigby, who is a Ward representative for Bromham & Biddenham said:

‘Last year’s inspection painted a picture of a Dickensian facility which is not suitable for the 21st century.  Patients were worried about sharing 4 bedroom dormitories as this compromised their privacy and dignity.  Corridors in the assessment unit had to be used as a ‘thoroughfare’ by staff when vulnerable patients were waiting to be seen.  There were also issues around the appropriateness of areas for patients to meet their families and inadequate furniture used by patients to store their possessions.

‘I asked SEPT whether the necessary improvements have been made and they have taken action to stop staff movements from adversely affecting patient privacy and they have moved to ensure that beds are appropriate for each patient.  Changes have also been made to the communal space and to furniture for storage.  SEPT had planned a new £1m facility but this has not been agreed with the local Clinical Commissioning Groups.’