A MENTAL health ward which was temporarily closed due to concerns over its staffing levels will remain under interim management until September.

In March, Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust closed the Consiton Ward at Ribbleton Hospital, in Preston, following concerns about meeting the ‘expected quality standards’.

Dr Amanda Thornton, clinical director for adult community services, said: “The staffing levels were problematic and highlighted that the ward was at risk of not meeting some of the expected quality standards. Therefore, the action was taken straight away to address the concerns.

“This interim arrangement will remain in place until September 2013 and every effort has been made to minimise disruption to patients, carers and staff.”