Clearly the results of the study challenge these assumptions. The results indicated that the sample of clients within Rampton Hospital perceived themselves to be more stressed, less satisfied, more alone and more unhappy than the original sample group at the Elwyn campus. Such a set of findings has to be interpreted in the light of the facilities that both organisations offer. Elwyn campus is a community orientated residential setting with lower levels of disturbed behaviour and voluntary participation. Rampton Hospital is a high secure setting and this study has provided some insight into both institutions.
Comparisons provide a yard-stick, and are a useful benchmark to set future standards.
The study was designed as an exploratory study using the PALS scales. While the Elwyn study reflected the perceptions of patients living in the community, this study included only high secure patients with behavioural problems. It has to be acknowledged that to some degree true comparisons cannot be made. However, using Elwyn as a benchmark allows comparative examinations and a measure for clinical practice to aspire to. Since the ultimate goal is to rehabilitate patients into less secure facilities there is a need to work towards those standards.