Issue - meetings

The Panel considered the report of the Chief Executive, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, providing the Panel with an update on progress at the Trust.

Dr Nick Broughton (Chief Executive - Southern Health), Dr Adam Cox (Clinical Director -Southern Health) Sharon Harwood (Area Matron, Beaulieu and Berrywood Wards – Southern Health) and Kathy Jackson (OPMH Service Manager, Southampton -Southern Health) were in attendance and, with the consent of the Chair, addressed the meeting.

The Panel discussed a number of points including:

·  The Panel was provided with an update on the reopening of Beaulieu Ward at Western Community Hospital.  The Panel welcomed the reopening and were informed that the ward was fully staffed but that there had been in a reduction in the number of beds on the ward;

·  Following the inquest into the two inpatient suicides in 2017 at Antelope House the Panel was also briefed on the progress against the actions recommended by the Coroner. It was noted that the majority of the actions had been addressed including the installation of door sensors.  In addition it was noted that the Trust were continuing to make progress in the provision of single sex wards. 

·  The Panel questioned the staffing levels at Antelope House and, whilst recognising the challenges they faced recruiting and retaining qualified mental health nurses and psychiatrists, the Trust outlined the initiatives that were being employed to ensure that safe staffing levels were maintained. 

·  The Panel were briefed on the new management and operating structure of the Trust.  The Panel also were invited to visit Antelope House to develop understanding of the services provided at the facility. 

RESOLVED that the report be noted.