In a recent evaluation by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, overseeing Forward Thinking Birmingham, one of England’s most extensive child and adolescent mental health services, has transitioned from an inadequate rating to a “requires improvement” status. The CQC inspectors revisited the trust following prior warnings of enforcement action if necessary changes were not implemented.
The report, disclosed on Friday, acknowledged some positive developments but highlighted areas where further enhancements were necessary. While improvements were noted in staff assessments and the management of individual risks for children and young people, concerns arose regarding the timeliness of actions taken by managers. The trust expressed gratitude for the report but admitted there was still “a lot more work to do.”
One significant improvement since the previous inspection in 2022 was the trust’s commitment to ensuring that the premises used by the service were fit for purpose. However, the inspection also revealed that teams lacked the inclusion of, and access to, the full spectrum of specialists essential to meeting patients’ diverse needs. Despite a reduction in waiting times, accessing the service was not consistently straightforward.
In response to the findings, the trust’s chief executive affirmed their commitment to the improvement plan, stating, “We will continue to focus on delivering the actions set out within our improvement plan, working closely with our group of experts by experience, who are helping us to shape the changes that are needed to provide the best possible care for our children and young people.”
While inspectors observed progress in the management of individual concerns about risks and the collaborative development of care plans with families and carers, feedback from service users was mixed. Thirteen children and young people who utilized the service provided varying perspectives. Some reported frequent changes in their care coordinator, others expressed dissatisfaction with staff attitudes, and one individual noted a communication deficit.
The CQC’s assessment identified nine key areas for improvement, underscoring the need for the trust to ensure an adequate number of suitably qualified staff to meet the diverse needs of children and young people. This recommendation aligns with the broader goal of bolstering the overall effectiveness and accessibility of children’s mental health services within the trust.
The commitment to involving experts by experience in shaping improvements signifies a collaborative approach to address shortcomings. By engaging with individuals who have firsthand experience with the services, the trust aims to tailor its strategies to align more closely with the needs and expectations of service users.
It is essential to note that while the transition from an inadequate rating to “requires improvement” is indicative of positive strides, the journey toward excellence in children’s mental health services requires sustained efforts and a commitment to ongoing enhancements. The trust’s acknowledgment of the report’s findings and its pledge to continued improvement signal a proactive stance in addressing challenges head-on.
As the trust navigates the identified areas for improvement, the spotlight remains on ensuring that children and young people receive the highest quality of care. Striking a balance between addressing immediate concerns and implementing long-term systemic improvements will be crucial in fostering a robust and resilient mental health support system for the community.
In conclusion, the recent CQC assessment underscores both progress and the need for further improvements in Birmingham’s children’s mental health services. The trust’s dedication to addressing identified areas for enhancement and collaborating with experts by experience reflects a commitment to delivering the best possible care for children and young people. The ongoing journey towards excellence in mental health services is a collective effort that requires vigilance, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of the community’s youth.
