A Bradford scheme to increase the time front-line ward staff spend on direct patient care has been praised by one of the region’s top health chiefs.

Kathryn Riddle, chairman of the strategic health authority for Yorkshire and the Humber, visited Bradford District Care Trust to see how the productive ward programme is working six months after its launch.

The programme focuses on making small changes that, put together, make a big difference to the amount of extra time staff can spend on helping patients with their recovery.

Mrs Riddle was given a tour of the Care Trust’s assessment and treatment unit at Lynfield Mount Hospital, one of six wards taking part in the programme.

Staff on the ward, which supports people with complex learning difficulties and mental health problems, have put into action a number of practical measures, such as reorganising the ward so everyone knows where everything is at all times.

They are now looking at how mealtimes can be organised more efficiently to provide more individual support.

Mrs Riddle said: “This is clearly a fantastic unit. It’s brilliant to see how the productive wards programme has such a positive effect on everything they do.

“They have created a homely environment that is peaceful and relaxed with staff that people can relate to.”

Barry Seal, chairman of the trust, said: “It is part of a long-term plan to release more time for direct care on the wards. We’re proud of our progress. Front-line ward staff are actively involved and routinely make suggestions for improvement so more time will be spent with service users.”

  • Read the full story in Tuesday's T&A