A Suffolk MP has said he is "delighted" with progress made at a local NHS Trust which has faced fierce criticism in recent years.

The Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, which provides mental health and learning disability care for people across the two counties, recently saw its CQC (Care Quality Commission) rating rise from 'inadequate' to 'requires improvement'. 

East Anglian Daily Times: NSFT has faced fierce criticism in recent years, with many believing it to be past the point of no return. Credit: Archant Norfolk Photographic © 2009NSFT has faced fierce criticism in recent years, with many believing it to be past the point of no return. Credit: Archant Norfolk Photographic © 2009 (Image: Archant Norfolk Photographic © 2009)

The report - which also resulted in the removal of a legal warning notice relating to concerns over patient safety - came a year after a damning report highlighted more than 100 things the trust had to do to avoid closure.

Speaking in the House of Commons earlier this week, MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich Dr Dan Poulter, acknowledged there was still more to be done, but said: "I am delighted with the progress made by the Trust and the feedback from service users is very encouraging.

East Anglian Daily Times: Dr Dan Poulter commended the leadership of the Trust. Credit: NewsquestDr Dan Poulter commended the leadership of the Trust. Credit: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

"It is heartening to learn that patients now feel safe in the hands of the Trust, and they have also expressed satisfaction with the care and kindness they have received.

"They feel they are listened to and treated with respect."

Prior to the latest CQC report, Dr Poulter and Ipswich MP Tom Hunt had been vocal with their calls to reform the Trust - with the former previously saying he believed NSFT was past the "point of no return". 

Last year, Mr Hunt said "enough is enough" and demanded "radical action" at what he described as a "failing Trust".

East Anglian Daily Times: Ipswich MP Tom Hunt described NSFT as a failing Trust last year. Credit: House of CommonsIpswich MP Tom Hunt described NSFT as a failing Trust last year. Credit: House of Commons (Image: House of Commons)

The debate this week saw Dr Poulter commend the leadership and hard work of the Trust, calling for the Government to continue providing necessary support, especially with capital funding.

He said: "Whilst there is still some way to go,  I am now confident that under the current leadership, the Trust will continue to improve and to deliver the high quality services that people here in Suffolk can expect and deserve."