Two trusts to miss deadline for eliminating ‘distressing’ wards

At least two trusts are set to fall short on a high-profile pledge to eradicate ‘dormitory’ style wards in mental health facilities, with delays caused by cost pressures and shortage of materials and labour.

In 2020, ministers said more than 1,200 beds in mental health dormitories across more than 50 sites would be replaced with single, en-suite accommodation by March 2025. Around £400m was allocated to achieve this.

However, information gathered by HSJ via freedom of information requests suggests there will be at least 37 dormitory beds still in use beyond that date.

In 2018, the Care Quality Commission said: “In the 21st century, patients, many of whom have not agreed to admission, should not be expected to share sleeping accommodation with strangers, some of whom may be agitated”. Patients have told HSJ they felt “distressed”, “unsafe” and “intimidated” on dormitory style wards.

Leaders of trusts impacted by delays told HSJ of rising cost pressures, shortages of construction materials and availability of labour.

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Source: HSJ, 17 October 2023