The regulator noted improvements at the service following a period of ‘prolonged instability'.

NSFT was brought out of special measures by NHS England in February 2025 following a review.

Stuart Dunn, CQC deputy director of operations in the East of England, said: ‘Recent appointments to the board had brought greater stability and experience from high-performing organisations. We saw a significantly improved governance system in place, with clearer lines of accountability and stronger oversight of risks and performance. The board is now more stable, but this stability needs to be maintained so that relationships and confidence can continue to be rebuilt, both within the organisation and with external partners.'

Caroline Donovan, chief executive at NSFT, said: ‘This well-led assessment highlights several key areas of sustained improvement and shows the large-scale transformation which is taking place at NSFT is beginning to reap positive results.

‘We look forward to working closely together to continue to drive these improvements and build on the solid foundations which we have already put in place so that we can consistently provide safer, kinder, better services for our communities.'