Psychiatry-UK

The service had effective systems in place to keep people safe. Staff understood how to protect patients from abuse and followed clear safeguarding processes. Staff used a digital system to report incidents and safeguarding concerns, which was easy to use and supported timely action.

Staff assessed and managed risks to patients well. They used a BRAG (Black, Red, Amber, Green) risk rating system to prioritise care and monitored people on waiting lists. The service used artificial intelligence (AI) to identify patients at risk and supported staff to respond quickly. Patients could update their risk information through the online patient portal, and the nurse liaison team reviewed this regularly.

The service had enough staff to meet the needs of patients. Staff received mandatory training and regular supervision. The provider had streamlined recruitment processes and was expanding the clinical leadership team to meet increasing demand. Staff told us they felt supported and had manageable caseloads.

Medicines were prescribed safely and in line with national guidance. The provider had a medicines management lead and systems to track prescriptions. Staff worked with GPs through shared care agreements. Where issues arose, such as delays due to medicine shortages, the provider reviewed and improved its processes to reduce risks to patients.

Patients received care in a safe virtual environment. Staff followed confidentiality policies when working remotely.