"Good treatment to meet my short term needs"

I have just been on Sapphire Ward for 8 days as a voluntary patient. My overall opinion is to rate all aspects of the ward and staff as excellent. To be honest, other reviews had made me fearful of what to expect. Sapphire is modern with individual en suite rooms which I found to be appropriate to my needs. The staff, from Ward Manager through nurses to Housekeeping were professional, supportive, approachable and endlessly patient in meeting my individual requirements. A community meeting was held while I was there, suggestions/comments were readily received by the staff and, if possible, promptly acted upon.

There are a few design/building flaws in the ward, eg, when the shower is used, water accumulates on the wet room floor and is reluctant to drain away. In my room the water flooded out of the wet room and across the main room floor each time I showered.

Food was abundant, well prepared and plenty of choice was on offer. In fact, I would say that what I chose was the best food I have ever had in an NHS facility.

The Consultant and other medical staff were very approachable, always discussed treatment and accepted my input prior to the implementation of the agreed plan.

I was always treated with dignity and respect, which is so important to successful treatment.

Finally, it should be emphasised that the ward is only able to operate as a place of safety, where medication can be adjusted but therapy is not on offer. However, interaction with such a friendly, approachable staff is in itself therapeutic. I hope that I will not need to be admitted to Sapphire Ward again but if I do require re-admission in the future I will be confident of good treatment to meet my short term needs.