Ark House

This means we looked for evidence that people’s care, treatment and support achieved good outcomes and promoted a good quality of life, based on best available evidence. At our last assessment we rated this key question as good. At this assessment the rating has changed to outstanding. This meant people’s outcomes were consistently better than expected compared to similar services. People told us the service was exceptional and distinctive.

There were processes and pathways in place to ensure effective admission, treatment and discharge.. Clients had consistent access to effective therapy sessions, both individual and group. Staff supported clients to maintain their physical health by liaising with GP’s, pharmacy and community teams. There were regular activities which enhanced client’s socialisation, and encouraged routine and built confidence. Staff also engaged clients and families in creating individual plans to support them throughout their recovery journey.

Clients were assessed prior to admission to Ark House and received comprehensive mental health and risk assessments on, or soon after admission to the service.

Client outcomes were consistently good or exceeded their own expectations and feedback from client’s and their families confirmed this. We spoke to 9 clients and 5 family members of clients using the service or who had been recently discharged. Staff supported clients in a person-centred way and included them as partners in their care and treatment, encouraging independence and recovery. Staff worked exceptionally well as a team to deliver therapies, care and support. Staff had good knowledge of issues that could impact recovery and how to support the clients within the service.

Clients were able to access a wide range of support, including GP’s, pharmacists, counsellors, recovery support workers, wellbeing officer and community mental health teams. Staff supported clients to access physical healthcare specialists at local hospitals and services where needed.