Trust betters score across every area in Patient-Led Assessments of the Care Environment programme

20 March 2026

Patients at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust are benefiting from continued improvements to hospital environments, according to latest results.

UHCW bettered its performance from 2024 across every area measured in the Patient‑Led Assessments of the Care Environment (PLACE) programme.

PLACE assessments are carried out annually and focus on the non‑clinical aspects of care that matter most to patients, including cleanliness, food and hydration, privacy and dignity, and how well environments support people living with dementia or with a disability.

Assessments are distinctive in that they are led by members of the public, known as patient assessors, who make up at least half of each assessment team. They work alongside staff to review facilities against national standards and guidelines.

UHCW NHS Trust Chief Executive Officer, Professor Andy Hardy, said: “These results are something our teams should be incredibly proud of.

“Improving every PLACE score is a real testament to the hard work, dedication and care shown by colleagues right across UHCW. Just as importantly, it reflects the value of listening to our patients and working alongside them.

“The PLACE programme helps us see our environments through the eyes of the people who use them, and that insight is central to how we continue to improve the experience of care for everyone who comes through our doors.”

Both University Hospital, Coventry, and the Hospital of St Cross in Rugby scored above the national average for cleanliness, condition, appearance and maintenance, dementia and disability.

Measures recently introduced include dementia-friendly clocks, the launch of a Carers’ Charter, extending the offer of hot drinks and snacks during later hours, child-friendly cutlery in Paediatrics and better road markings at the Hospital of St Cross.

Patient Partner Stuart Clift added: “I find people are usually very open and, the more honest they are, the easier it is to make positive change.

“As the eyes and ears of patients, we are striving to enhance the emotional feel and experience from the minute they walk in to hospital to the time they are discharged.”

A PLACE working group continues to meet with cleaning around entrance areas and privacy and dignity within bathrooms two areas they are aiming to improve.

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