Environment remains a ‘challenge’ for Kent and Medway Partnership

In its March board papers, deputy chief executive Marie Dodd reminded the board that a November review by the Care Quality Commission had included “specific reference to mixed sex accommodation in Medway [Hospital] and the environment, plus issues around the environment at the Arundel Unit”.

She told the board that the trust had actioned plans prior to the CQC assessment in relation to Medway. These changes were achieved in December 2010 in relation to mixed sex accommodation, with the split of younger and older adults achieved in January 2011.

But she added: “The environment remains a challenge and discussions are ongoing with the primary care trust in Medway (NHS Medway) to find alternative premises so that the trust matches the higher standard of single room ensuite accommodation available elsewhere in the trust.

“Similarly the Board’s commitment to the new build of units at the St Martin’s site will provide the long term solution to the environmental difficulties at the Arundel Unit.”