TWO wards at the Vale of Leven Hospital have received a positive report from a recent Mental Welfare Commission inspection.

Key findings for Fruin and Katrine wards were that staff were committed to maintaining person-centred care for older people mental health patients including managing physical health care needs well and the provision of regular programme of activities.

The wards care for mental health patients, over the age of 65, many of whom have a diagnosis of dementia.

Other highlights included relatives feeling both the availability and quality of communication about their loved one was very positive, good input from physiotherapy and speech and language therapy, and patients regularly being given the chance to get outside to enjoy activities.

Fraser Downie, integrated operations manager said: “The Vale of Leven Hospital mental health wards are an excellent facility and this report highlights just how well the staff care for their patients day in, day out.

“The positive feedback from relatives was great to hear and I want to thank all staff in Fruin and Katrine wards for their ongoing commitment to their patients.”

West Dunbartonshire HSCP’s chief officer Beth Culshaw said: “This is an excellent review of the Vale, made in very challenging times.

“We are a great team and this report reflects that. My thanks go to all the hard working staff at the Vale for their hard work and determination during a very difficult year.”

Last year, health bosses confirmed both the Fruin and Katrine wards would remain open despite online rumours that they were under threat.

Dumbarton and the Vale’s MSP, Jackie Baillie, wrote urgently to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, the West Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership and to the then cabinet secretary for health, Jeane Freeman, to demand that the wards stay open.