Widnes UTC PLACE Assessment 2025 – Summary
A total of 11 patient assessors and 5 staff assessors took part, including representatives from Healthwatch Halton, carers’ organisations, hospital volunteers and Bridgewater governors.
Healthwatch Halton supported the assessment by providing three trained volunteers on the day, ensuring strong patient and public representation.
Assessors reviewed key aspects of the environment including:
- cleanliness and maintenance
- signage and facilities
- privacy and dignity
- accessibility and dementia-friendly design
- support for people with disabilities
Key findings
Overall, patient assessors were positive about the environment and felt confident that a good level of care would be delivered. Improvements made since last year were welcomed, particularly better wheelchair access outside the building.
However, several priority areas for improvement were identified:
- Signage – too small and limited, with recommendations for clearer, colour-coded maps and braille signage
- Quiet room – need for a dedicated private space for distressing news, breastfeeding or patients needing calm
- Accessibility – hearing loop should be permanently active and upgraded, and lift emergency procedures made more inclusive for people with hearing loss
- Cleaning – toilets are only cleaned morning and evening, with no daytime cover
- General wear and tear – minor repairs and deep cleaning needed in some areas
Next steps
An action plan is now in place, led by Bridgewater’s Estates Team and the UTC Operational Manager, to address these recommendations.
A further PLACE assessment will take place next year to track progress.
