A systemic investigation was conducted by the Office of the Health Ombudsman (OHO) following a complaint regarding the management of sexual safety incidents and communication device restrictions in an inpatient mental health unit.

The investigation aimed to assess the adequacy of the health service’s response to these allegations and its management of personal communication device restrictions, with the goal of identifying systemic issues and recommending health service improvements.

Wider learnings and suggested actions for service improvements

As the health service initiated and progressed significant improvements in the management of sexual safety incidents throughout the duration of the investigation, no formal recommendations were made. Additional actions were suggested to enhance service improvement.

Strengthen policy adherence:

• Ensure consistent documentation and reporting of all sexual safety allegations, regardless of perceived plausibility of the incident.
• Maintain clear records of risk assessments, actions taken, and clinical support provided.

Enhance Staff Training:

• Provide comprehensive training to all staff on sexual safety policies, risk assessment, and incident management.

Improve Communication:

• Clearly communicate the rationale for any restrictions on personal communication devices to consumers at the time of admission and establish transparent review processes.

Policy Review:

• Review local sexual safety policies to ensure alignment with the revised state-wide guidelines and incorporate best practice standards.

Implement Risk Mitigation Strategies:

• Develop clear and consistent risk mitigation strategies to address sexual safety risks in mental health settings with regular review.

Read the snapshot report (PDF 148KB)