Archived: The St Aubyn Centre Also known as Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit

Before people received any care or treatment we found that they had been asked for their consent. Where people did not have the capacity to consent, the provider had acted in accordance with legal requirements.

We were told that people were actively encouraged to participate in their individual treatment programme and that they accessed specialist therapies and other support from staff. We saw people's needs were assessed, and that care and treatment was planned and delivered in line with people's individual care plans.

None of the young people we spoke with expressed any concerns about their safety. We saw staff dealt with challenging situations calmly and effectively. The provider ensured that people who used the service were protected from the risk of abuse.

Staff were trained and supported by way of appraisals and supervisions. Staff reported that there were good opportunities for training.

The provider had effective systems in place to monitor the quality and safety of service that people received.

The St Aubyn Centre provided care and treatment to young people on an informal (voluntary) basis as well as those detained under the Mental Health Act 1983.

The Centre was found to be warm, bright, spacious and welcoming. Young people were involved in their care and treatment and most had agreed to their care pathway. They were given choices and supported to make decisions.

Care plans, risk assessments, daily notes, observations, safeguarding and restraint records were comprehensive and clear which provided all staff and the young people with an understanding of their treatment and care pathway.

Staff had the necessary skills and training to provide care and treatment to the young people. They were provided with appropriate clinical supervision and support in order to carry out their duties effectively.

The young people told us they felt supported by the staff. They listened and gave them advice when they needed it. One young person said, 'I am really supported here and it's the best place I have been.' Another young person said, 'Eventually I was listened to and my views were acknowledged.'

There were effective systems in place to assess and monitor the quality of the service.