BPAS - Middlesbrough

At our last inspection we rated safe as requires improvement. At this assessment the rating has improved to good. This meant women’s safety was consistently good, and women’s feedback confirmed this.

We found safety was a priority for everyone, and leaders embedded a culture of openness and collaboration. Women were safe and protected from bullying, harassment, avoidable harm, neglect, abuse and discrimination. Women’s liberty was protected where this was in their best interests and in line with legislation.

The service had an excellent learning culture. When women raised concerns about safety and ideas to improve, the primary response was always to learn and improve. There was strong awareness of the areas with the greatest safety risks. Solutions to risks were developed collaboratively. Managers investigated incidents thoroughly and the provider was open and transparent when things went wrong. Women were protected by a strong approach to safeguarding. Staff understood and managed risks. The facilities and equipment met the needs of women, were clean and well-maintained and any risks mitigated. There were enough staff with the right skills, qualifications and experience. Managers made sure staff received training and regular appraisals to maintain high-quality care. Staff managed medicines well and involved women in planning any changes.

We rated this key question good. This meant women were safe and protected from avoidable harm. At our last assessment we rated this key question requires improvement. At that time the service was in breach of Regulation 12 (1) (2) (g) because medicines issued to clients by staff, known as TTO (to take out) packs, did not meet legal requirements for labelling. At this assessment the service was no longer in breach of Regulation 12 and the rating has changed to good.