New Care Quality Commission rating for mental health rehabilitation services at NHS trust after inspection
Patients at Wesham Rehabilitation Unit praised the supportive environment, while families and carers said they felt involved in their loved ones’ recovery
Mental health rehabilitation services at Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust have retained their ‘Good’ rating following an inspection that highlighted the positive experiences of patients, families and carers.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) carried out an unannounced inspection of Wesham Rehabilitation Unit on June 16 and 17, 2026, speaking directly with patients, carers and staff at the 26-bed facility for male patients.
Inspectors found that patients felt safe, respected and supported by staff, with many describing the environment as less restrictive than previous placements. The report also highlighted positive ward environments, opportunities for patients to participate in meaningful activities and the involvement of families and carers in care decisions.
Families and carers were unanimously positive about their experiences, explaining that they were kept informed and invited to important meetings. They said their views were listened to and respected, particularly when concerns were raised. They also described staff as caring and said the ward environment was therapeutic and supported their loved ones’ recovery.
Overall, families expressed satisfaction with the support provided by staff and the way carers were involved throughout the recovery process.
Dr Dush Mahadevan, interim chief medical officer at Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are really pleased to have retained a ‘good’ rating for our mental health rehabilitation services following the CQC’s most recent inspection.
“Such services are an integral part of recovery for some our patients, maximising an individual’s quality of life and social inclusion by encouraging their skills, promoting independence and autonomy. The aim is to give them hope for future successful community living through the appropriate support.
“We know that many of our patients at our Wesham facility do go on to be discharged, living independently and it is great to be recognised by the CQC for the part our service plays in their journey to recovery.
“We will continue to offer an excellent service, with patients at the heart of what we do and we are also ambitious in our aims to improve health, offering the best care, while helping our colleagues take joy and pride in their work. We remain fully committed to delivering the best for our patients, colleagues, carers and families.”
The unit was first inspected when it opened in March 2022. Following the latest inspection, the service also retained its ‘Good’ ratings in the well-led, effective, caring and responsive domains.