Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust to exit special measures after seven years

An NHS mental health trust is celebrating after exiting special measures – but bosses admit there is still much more to do.

Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) has been lifted out of the lowest rating, following a review by NHS England.

It has been confirmed that the trust is no longer in NHS oversight framework, and has been removed from the recovery support programme (RSP), formerly known as special measures.

The trust has experienced a turbulent past decade, having been in special measures or RSP since 2017, after receiving an inadequate rating following a Care Quality Commission inspection.

NHS England described the announcement as “positive news for patients”.

However, it stated that there is much work still to do, with next steps including working with regional colleagues to agree a transition plan to ensure continued improvement.

Zoë Billingham, chairman of NSFT, welcomed the announcement and thanked staff for their hard work, dedication and commitment.

She said: “As chair of this trust for three years, the difference between the past and the present is so significant.

“We know that there is much work to do to deliver consistent, good-quality mental health services and we are committed to achieving this.”

Caroline Donovan, chief executive officer at NSFT, added: “This is a milestone in our improvement journey at the trust.

“There truly is so much that has been achieved by everyone last year and so much to feel optimistic about.”