Mental health inspectors highlighted increased anxiety and social distancing issues for autistic patients under lockdown as it praised Woodland View staff efforts over the pandemic.

The Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland inspectors visited Ward 7at Woodland View reviewing its care planning, activities, and the physical environment after a previous visit in 2018 with no further recommendations made.

The 10-bed unit provides assessment and treatment for patients with learning disabilities and significantly complex health care needs often associated with autism spectrum disorder.

The report stated: “The patients who we spoke to, who were able to express a view, were positive about the care and treatment that they were receiving. We observed positive interactions between staff and patients.

“We found staff to be knowledgeable regarding all their patients.We did hear that some patients required gentle guidance regarding social distancing.

“There were concerns about the mental health of some patients and this was monitored closely. Some patients on the autistic spectrum experienced increased anxiety due to changes to routines.”