HSJ Patient Safety Awards 2017: Changing Culture

Cygnet Hospital Beckton was formally a mixed forensic service working with service users with a psychotic illness and risk to others. Two years prior to the implementation of this initiative the service provision changed to a female specific service supporting service users with high risk of harm to self.

Former harm reduction strategies focused primarily on violence to others, therefore, Senior managers agreed that a culture change, not just policy change, was required. The Self Harm to Together Healing Programme was introduced and over a four year period there was a 74 per cent reduction in self harm by ligature, cutting and swallowing.

The judges felt this was an excellent presentation, delivered with clear passion and drive. There was a very clear pathway of process and boundaries.

Highly commended was Bradford District Care Foundation Trust.