Plumbing problems causing a stink at Swallownest mental health unit

A HEALTH trust has apologised to patients and visitors at a mental health unit after complaints about unpleasant plumbing problems

Paul Barratt, head of estates and facilities for Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH), confirmed Swallownest Court had suffered drainage issues, some of which related to suspect items being flushed down the toilet.

A patient who contacted the Advertiser to raise the matter called the situation “disgusting”, adding: “We’ve had influenza, diarrohoea and vomiting and it’s seriously upsetting for the patients.

“I’m sick and tired of seeing what comes up the toilet, including poo and blood.

“I’ve complained so many times about this.”

Mr Barratt said: “I want to apologise to patients, visitors and staff who may have experienced drainage problems at our Swallownest Court site.

“We have had drainage issues and ask patients and visitors not to place inappropriate products down the toilets, such as hand towels and sanitary products, which tend to be the main cause of the blockages.

“We have a dedicated maintenance team based at Swallownest Court who act immediately when a blockage is reported.  

“We always try to ensure that the blockage is dealt with on the same day, including at weekends.

“If anyone staying or visiting our site sees a drainage problem, we encourage them to report it straight away to our staff so we can ensure the blockage is dealt with quickly.”

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