Rhyd Alyn, on Argoed Hall Lane, Mold, is a six bed community rehabilitation (level 1) service for women with mental health struggles who have been able to progress through the hospital pathway at Cygnet Delfryn Lodge.
The Cygnet Group service was praised in the inspection report for the way staff treated patients with kindness and respect, the range of therapeutic activities on offer and the opportunities provided for people to develop their independence.
Health Inspectorate Wales said: “We found that staff treated patients with kindness, respect and compassion, responding promptly and appropriately to their needs.”
The report highlighted how patients were involved in decisions about their care and encouraged to develop independent living skills. Inspectors noted the wide range of therapeutic activities and facilities available which supported patients’ wellbeing and “contributed positively to patient experience and recovery.”
The inspectors identified several other areas of good practice at Rhyd Alyn, including clear and respectful communication with patients, regular opportunities for patients and carers to provide feedback, and a strong focus on rehabilitation and independence.
Speaking about the staffing team, they added: “We found patients were receiving safe and effective care from a skilled and committed MDT. Patient care was delivered in a coordinated and person-centred way, with staff demonstrating a good understanding of patients’ needs and risks.”
Further highlighting the quality of staffing at the service, the report noted that staff described leaders as “visible, approachable and supportive.”
Inspectors noted: “Staff we spoke with during the inspection were positive about the care provided, described a supportive team culture, and told us that safe care was being maintained. Staff also spoke positively about teamwork and leadership support within the service.
“Staff demonstrated a strong commitment to delivering safe, person-centred care. Feedback regarding colleagues and managers during the inspection was consistently positive.”
Inspectors observed staff interacting with patients in a calm, considerate and professional manner, treating them with dignity and respect.
The report read: “We observed staff communicating with patients in a clear, supportive and respectful manner. Patients appeared comfortable approaching staff, and staff responded promptly to requests and concerns.”
The report also recognised the range of activities available to patients to support their physical and mental wellbeing. These included therapeutic, recreational and community-based activities whilst service users also had access to self-directed activities, including games and puzzles.
Feedback from a family member or carer was also positive. They described staff as “amazing”, said they felt welcomed and safe when visiting the service, and reported being appropriately involved in their loved one’s care.
Leanne Smith, Service Manager at Rhyd Alyn, said: “We welcome the feedback from Health Inspectorate Wales and are pleased that the report recognises the work of our team to provide safe, person-centred care.
“Our focus is on supporting people to have a meaningful experience while at Rhyd Alyn, involving them in decisions about their care and helping them develop the skills and confidence to live as independently as possible.
“We also recognise the importance of working in partnership with families and carers, listening to feedback and ensuring people’s individual needs, preferences and backgrounds are respected.”