Signs of progress at trust despite CQC downgrade

The management of an NHS trust has been downgraded from good, to requires improvement, following an inspection into its leadership and culture.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) rated the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust in one area - on how well-led it was - after a visit in February.

The government agency said there was poor communication, discrimination and a lack of staff confidence when raising concerns. However, it also noted "encouraging signs of progress" after a change in leadership.

Steve Grange, chief executive officer at the trust, said "we know there is much work to be done," but was pleased the CQC saw some progress.

The trust has services at more than 50 sites, with main hubs in Cambridge, Huntingdon, Peterborough and Fenland.

The inspection was made after concerns about culture and leadership were flagged during previous inspections at three of its mental health services.

Stuart Dunn, CQC deputy director of operations in the East of England, said it saw a workforce and board "committed to working more collaboratively, from a place of mutual respect under new leadership".

He added: "While the trust had begun to take steps to improve culture and inclusion, leadership arrangements weren't fully embedded or consistently effective, which is important to deliver meaningful impact for staff and people using services."

Other points noted included staff not feeling confident enough to raise concerns, and reports of poor communication and a lack of visible leadership.

The CQC added that the trust did not always respond to complaints correctly, and staff continued to raise concerns about discrimination.

"However, we have seen encouraging signs of progress," Mr Dunn said.

"The new chief executive was well received by staff and stakeholders, who described him as open and approachable.

"He had taken swift action where needed and, under the chair's leadership, had the board and executive team working together in a respectful and collaborative way, creating a stronger foundation for the improvements that CQC needs to see happen."

Mr Grange hoped the trust could "continue to grow and improve for the communities we serve".

"This report marks a point in time and, while we are pleased that the CQC has noted encouraging signs of progress being made, we know there is much work to be done," he said.

"Since joining the trust, I have seen an organisation that is committed to improving, and I would like to thank our dedicated staff for delivering the best possible care for our patients, service users and their families."

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