Report on an announced follow up inspection of Te Whare Oranga Tangata o Whakaue Unit, Rotorua Hospital

Background

Ombudsmen are designated as one of the National Preventive Mechanisms (NPMs) under the Crimes of Torture Act 1989 (COTA), with responsibility for examining and monitoring the conditions and treatment of patients detained in secure units within New Zealand hospitals.

My role is to form an independent opinion as to the conditions and treatment in these places, report my observations and if necessary make recommendations for improvement.

From 23 November 2021, a team of two Inspectors – whom I have authorised to carry out visits to places of detention under the COTA on my behalf – made an announced two-day inspection to the Unit to follow up on recommendations made following my previous inspection in 2019. At the time of my 2021 inspection, the Unit was operating at COVID-19 Alert Level 2.

My Inspectors looked for progress in implementing the recommendations I made in 2019, and identified any additional issues that need addressing.

Summary

Te Whare Oranga Tangata o Whakaue Unit is a mixed-gender 14-bed open facility which includes two dedicated older peoples’ beds. The Unit is located in the grounds of Rotorua Hospital, Rotorua.

The Unit provides assessment, diagnosis, treatment, stabilisation, and crisis care for adults and older tāngata whai ora [1] experiencing mental health and/or addiction issues who are unable to be cared for safely in the community.

Of the 15 recommendations in my 2019 report, four had been achieved, one was progressing but not yet achieved and 10 were not achieved. I repeat or amend recommendations that were not achieved.

Feedback process

At the time of this inspection, the Unit was under the management of the Lakes District Health

Board (the DHB). Throughout this report there are references to the DHB, as the responsible body at the time of the inspection. However, where appropriate, recommendations are made to Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora, as the responsible agency at the time of finalising this report.

Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora and the Ministry of Health received a copy of my provisional report and were invited to comment. I received responses from both Te Whatu Ora and the Ministry of Health, and I have considered their feedback when preparing my final report.

Footnote

[1] A person who uses mental health and addiction services. This term is often used interchangeably with consumer or client. Return to text