Healthcare Inspectorate Wales Uncovers Serious Issues at University Hospital Llandough

An unannounced inspection at University Hospital Llandough in Cardiff uncovered serious concerns about patient care and ward conditions.

The Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) conducted an unannounced inspection at the University Hospital Llandough in Cardiff, revealing disturbing conditions that raised serious concerns about patient care and safety. The inspection, carried out on March 23, 24, and 25, 2026, focused on wards 10, 14, and 16, which cater to individuals over 65 with dementia or severe mental illnesses.

The findings highlighted significant issues with the cleanliness and condition of the wards, as well as the secure storage of medicines. The report detailed a strong odour in an unlocked cupboard, faecal staining on furniture and door frames, and red staining consistent with blood on a wall.

These conditions not only compromised patient dignity but also posed potential health risks.

Environmental and Safety Concerns

The inspection identified multiple environmental and safety risks including ligature risks in accessible areas and poor standards of cleanliness. The report stated, “HIW was not assured that effective risk management and infection prevention and control arrangements were consistently in place.” These issues were particularly concerning given the vulnerability of the patients, who rely on a stable and reassuring environment to remain oriented.

Additionally, the inspection found that patients’ personal belongings were not always stored securely, leading to instances of items going missing or being mixed up. This caused distress for both patients and their families. The report noted, “Patients’ property was not always stored appropriately, which reduced assurance that items were being managed safely and securely.” Valuables were often stored in CD cupboards without adequate security measures, highlighting a need for improved management protocols.

Management and Oversight Issues

The inspection also uncovered weaknesses in the management of personal belongings and the maintenance of orientation aids, such as clocks. Despite previous concerns raised by family members, these issues persisted. The report further detailed that patient information boards did not consistently display up-to-date information about staff roles, which is crucial for maintaining a safe and supportive environment.

Alun Jones, Chief Executive of Healthcare Inspectorate Wales, acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the staff but emphasized the need for improvement. He stated, “This inspection found committed staff delivering compassionate and respectful care in challenging circumstances. However, significant concerns were identified about the ward environment and failure to address known risks, particularly around cleanliness, safety and oversight.” He urged the health board to demonstrate clear and sustained improvement to ensure patients are cared for in a safe, clean, and well-maintained environment.

Positive Aspects and Future Improvements

Despite the concerning findings, the inspection also highlighted several positive aspects of the service. The hospital provides a wide range of meaningful, therapeutic, and recreational activities. Patients were treated with dignity, kindness, and respect, and the care delivered was personalized, timely, and supportive of patient choice, independence, and wellbeing.

In response to the inspection, the health board has outlined actions taken and planned improvements. These include addressing safety risks, undertaking deep cleaning, strengthening infection control, improving maintenance, and enhancing oversight. The healthcare inspectorate will continue to monitor progress to ensure these improvements are implemented and sustained.

Natasha Asghar MS, Shadow Minister for Health and Social Care, acknowledged the compassionate care provided by the staff but emphasized the need for urgent improvements. She stated, “While it’s really reassuring to read about the compassionate care that older patients are receiving at Llandough Hospital, there are clearly a number of areas where performance is not good enough.” She called for clear progress on cleanliness, patient safety, dementia-friendly environments, and leadership accountability to reassure families and patients.