10 October 2025

Leaders, staff and Experts by Experience from CNWL took part in a joint Culture of Care Programme event held in Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex on 8 October 2025. This programme aims to improve the culture of inpatient mental health, learning disability and autism wards for patients and staff so that they are safe, therapeutic and equitable places to be cared for, and fulfilling places to work. The event hosted in collaboration with Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT), brought together colleagues from both trusts for a day of shared learning and reflection.

The core theme of the day was race equity, one of the guiding principles of the Culture of Care Programme. The event focused on the role of all staff across the organisation, from corporate teams to inpatient ward staff in providing services that are equitable for our patients. It created a space for open dialogue, personal reflection, and collaborative discussion on practical ways staff can help build inclusive and anti-racist healthcare environments.

A highlight of the day was a presentation from the Crane Ward at CNWL, who shared their ongoing Quality Improvement (QI) project focused on Inclusive Hair Care. The project aims to ensure that all patients, regardless of their hair type or cultural background, receive appropriate and respectful personal care during their inpatient stay. Crane Ward’s team shared their learning journey and the tests of change they have trialled as part of the initiative, offering practical insights into embedding inclusion into everyday clinical practice.

Kim Cox, Director of Nursing (Jameson), thanked the Crane Ward team for showcasing their work and expressed appreciation to everyone who attended and contributed to the discussions.

CNWL and EPUT will reunite in November 2025 to share learning and best practice on co-production across our inpatient mental health units.

Click here to learn more about the Culture of Care Programme.