David Norris (Independent)

A related issue to that of section 208 is the question of seclusion of patients, in other words, their isolation. The report notes there were 182 episodes during 2000 in St. Ita's Hospital and the inspector would like to see greater consultant input in these cases.

I was delighted to see the inspectorate interviewed three patients in St. Ita's. It is very important to ask the recipients of the treatment and they were generally positive. The nurses were perceived as kind and helpful. They made some little complaints. One item that was drawn to our attention was the use of personalised clothing. This is terribly important because it humanises the whole situation. If they are in a standard uniform it is horrible.