TWO mental health wards for older people in Oxford have received the seal of approval from a national regulatory body.

The Sandford and Cherwell wards at the Fulbrook Centre run by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, have been awarded the Royal College of Psychiatrists Accreditation for Inpatient and Mental Health Services (AIMS).

A third ward also run by the trust, the Amber Ward at the Whiteleaf Centre in Aylesbury, was also accredited.

The recognition comes after 18 months of assessment and peer review.

The accreditation demonstrates that the quality of care on the wards meets stringent national guidelines and standards, and according to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the 'AIMS process is increasingly being recognised as one of the very best tools currently available to produce improvements that make a meaningful difference to those that either provide or receive care in psychiatric wards'.

Modern matron for Amber ward Tara Rahim, said: “It is fantastic to receive the AIMS accreditation award .

"AIMS considered Amber ward to offer a timely and purposeful admission in a safe and therapeutic environment.”

Amber ward manager, Stella Godwin-Malife, added: “It was really motivating [o receive the award], and it shows how hard the staff on Amber ward work.

"It's great to see this work recognised.”

Oxford Health provide physical, mental health and social care for people of all ages across Oxfordshire.