"Father-in-law on Coln Ward - nothing but praise"

My father-in-law was admitted to Coln Ward at Cirencester Hospital as a referral from his GP. He was suffering from a severe decline in health as a result of heart failure earlier in the year. By the time of his admission he had become bed bound, extremely anxious and depressed and decided not to eat or to take any of his heart medication. We did not feel that he had long to live. The staff on the ward were extremely helpful and supportive from our first arrival. The ward manager took the time to explain the situation to me and suggested that we all (my father-in-law, my husband and myself) take a week to see how the situation developed and not rush to make any further decisions or arrangements. After a week he was less anxious, feeling safer and more comfortable. Although his physical condition was still worsening, he looked much happier and more settled. A prognosis was very difficult to make but it was obvious he now had more than days to live so we needed to find him a nursing home to move to. The ward sisters explained the procedure and arranged CHC fast track funding for him within 48 hours. After a stay of 15 days we moved my father to a nursing home and I think he was sad to leave. Throughout his stay we visited him daily and were always greeted cordially by ALL staff on the ward. Everyone was friendly and helpful - to both my father-in-law and us, when we were visiting. I was able to read the notes made regarding his care and could see that he was regularly, effectively and kindly cared for. My father-in-law has a DNR order in place and his wishes in terms of this and not eating etc. were always respected. He was politely offered food at mealtimes but never pressured about anything. Over the last few months we have had many interactions with the NHS and, to be honest, I have been repeatedly disappointed and frustrated. So, our experience at Cirencester Hospital was a welcome change. No-one wants to have to spend time in hospital but if you do, this is the sort of hospital you want to spend it in.