A specialist learning disability service (inpatient ward) managed by East Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership has been praised by Scotland’s Mental Welfare Commission for delivering compassionate, person-centred care in a complex inpatient setting.
Following a recent visit to Munro Ward at Stobhill Hospital on 8 October 2025, the Commission reported seeing people actively engaged in meaningful activities and receiving support from a highly skilled multidisciplinary team in a bright, modern environment.
Munro Ward provides assessment and treatment for adults with learning disabilities and mental ill health. The ward is managed by East Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP), which hosts learning disability inpatient wards across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde on behalf of the health board. The service recently relocated from Blythswood House in Renfrew. The move has enabled a single team to deliver care in a larger, safer environment.
Commission visitors met with nine people in the ward, spoke to staff, and reviewed care records. They reported seeing people engaged in sensory and group activities, enjoying time in the community, and receiving compassionate, person-centred care. Staff were described as knowing individuals well and supporting meaningful communication.
The report highlighted:
- Positive environment: Munro Ward was described as bright, clean and well-adapted, with wide corridors, natural light, and spaces for activities. A sensory room and enclosed garden provide opportunities for relaxation and outdoor access.
- Comprehensive care planning: Care records included detailed, regularly updated plans covering physical and mental health needs, risk management, and easy-read formats to support understanding.
- Strong multidisciplinary approach: The ward benefits from nursing, psychiatry, psychology, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, physiotherapy and dietetics. Daily staff ‘huddles’ and robust MDT meetings ensure coordinated care.
- Focus on rights and least restriction: Continuous interventions and restrictions were documented, person-centred, and regularly reviewed to minimise impact.
The Commission made no recommendations following the visit, noting significant improvements since its last visit in May 2024. It did request further information on how the report will be shared with individuals and families.
Councillor Katie Pragnell, Chair of East Renfrewshire Integration Joint Board, said: “This report is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the Munro Ward team. Providing person-centred care in a complex inpatient environment is challenging, and I want to thank every member of staff for their commitment to supporting people with compassion and dignity. Their work makes a real difference to individuals and families.”
Claire Lamza, Executive Director (Nursing) at the Mental Welfare Commission, said: “We were pleased to see the positive impact of the move to Munro Ward. People were receiving compassionate care in an environment that supports safety, dignity and meaningful activity. The multidisciplinary team is well-resourced and committed to person-centred practice.”
