Concerns raised over mental care

Devon Partnership Trust said it was determined to regain its top rating

Mental health services in much of Devon have fallen from excellent to fair according to the health watchdog.

The Devon Partnership Trust said it was disappointed at the report by the Care Quality Commission and would be taking steps to return to an excellent rating.

Derriford Hospital in Plymouth and North Devon District Hospital were also rated fair.

All other county hospitals, primary care trusts, and the ambulance service got the second highest ranking of good.

We fully understand the basis for this decision and have already taken significant steps to address the areas for improvement Iain Tulley, chief executive of the Devon Partnership Trust

The Devon Partnership Trust, which is not responsible for mental health care in Plymouth, treats everyone from people with learning disabilities to those needing help with eating disorders.

Ian Biggs, regional director of the Care Quality Commission, told BBC News: "Devon Partnership Trust were not fully meeting some standards.

"They were around the safe management and handling of medicines and making sure doctors and nurses are given proper supervision and leadership as well as risk management.

"We are working with them to make sure they are getting a grip on it."

Iain Tulley, chief executive of the Devon Partnership Trust said: "Our services have been rated as excellent for the past two years and, against this backdrop, we are obviously disappointed that our rating has been adjusted to fair.

"We fully understand the basis for this decision and have already taken significant steps to address the areas for improvement highlighted by the Care Quality Commission.

"We shouldn't, however, let it overshadow the sustained progress that has been made by our staff in the past year."

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