- Independent mental health service
St Andrew's Healthcare - Essex
Assessment report published 1 July 2026
Contents
Ratings - Forensic inpatient or secure wards
Our view of the service
The service provided safe care. The ward environments were pleasant, safe and clean. The wards had enough staff and ward teams had access to the full range of specialists to meet the needs of patients. Staff minimised the use of restrictive practices and followed good practice with respect to safeguarding. Staff completed thorough risk assessments of wards and individualised risk assessments with patients and updated these regularly and/or when risk presentation changed. Managers ensured that staff received training, supervision and appraisal and had developed strategies to boost staff wellbeing and recognise staff achievements. Feedback from patients and family members about the service was very positive. Patients told us they felt safe, and that staff were caring and treated them with kindness and respect.
People's experience of this service
We spoke with 5 patients during the inspection; all felt safe on the ward. We spent time observing daily life and routines to help us to understand their experiences.
Staff were caring, treated people with respect and ensured people were offered choices. This included choices in relation to food and drinks, activities and where people chose to spend their time. Patients had access to personalised activities such as the gym, badminton and organised day trips.
Patients spoke positively about the environment and their rooms; their rooms were clean and well equipped, although 2 patients told us the carpets could be replaced to improve the environment.
One patient told us they owe their life to the service. Patients described staff as approachable and will always support patients as soon as they can. One patient told us they had been assaulted whilst at the service. However, staff took the correct action to support him and make sure everyone was safe.