Agenda item

Verbal Update by Senior Associate Director of Assurance and Compliance and Associate Director of Nursing, Patient Safety, Patient Experience and Legal and Chief Nursing Information Officer

The Senior Associate Director of Assurance and Compliance, County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust submitted a report (previously circulated) updating Members on the Trust’s progress against its Quality Accounts for 2025/26. A presentation (also previously circulated) accompanied the report.

It was reported that the priorities for 2025/26 reflected the priorities in the ‘Quality Matters’ strategy and those priorities brought forward from 2024/25 where further work was required; and that the Breast Service review remained a key focus, with a significant programme of work underway.

The submitted report outlined the aims/progress, current position, RAG rating and further actions for each quality indicator with particular reference being made to those areas of under-achievement where urgent and focussed action was needed.

It was reported that the quality strategy would be reset going  forward and that sustaining improvements in the Breast Service and undertaking the improvement actions from the Aubrey report would be a key focus.

In relation to the priority ‘reducing harm from healthcare associated infections’ Members sought further information regarding the timescales for reducing infections, in particular CPE and further clarification in respect of waterless bathing for patients. Members were assured that monthly audits of all fundamental practices took place, with focused work on departments needing improvement. The Director of Public Health informed Members that a CPE leaflet and poster was being developed and that a blended approach was still in place, depending on the needs of the patient. Discussion also ensued regarding Martha’s rule, with Members noting that audits were undertaken on a quarterly basis.

RESOLVED – That the progress against the Trust’s priorities be noted.