CQC rates Doncaster care home Outstanding

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has upgraded Harry Priestley House in Thorne, Doncaster, from Good to Outstanding following an inspection carried out in May and June.

The care home, operated by The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution Care Company, provides personal care and support for autistic people and adults with learning disabilities. At the time of the inspection, 12 people were living at the service.

The inspection formed part of the CQC’s routine monitoring of adult social care services.

Following the inspection, the regulator rated the service Outstanding for Caring and Well-led, while Safe, Effective and Responsive were all rated Good, resulting in an overall Outstanding rating.

Inspectors found that staff consistently delivered compassionate, person-centred care and had developed strong relationships with the people they supported. People and their relatives gave positive feedback about the quality of care and described staff as approachable, supportive and respectful.

The report highlighted how staff adapted their communication to meet individual needs, including the use of sign language and people’s preferred communication methods to ensure they could express their views, make choices and take part in daily life.

Inspectors observed staff responding promptly to people’s needs, including taking practical steps to ensure their comfort and wellbeing during warm weather.

The CQC also found that people were actively involved in decisions about their care as well as the day-to-day running of the home. Regular meetings allowed residents to contribute to areas such as menu planning, activities and service improvements.

To help gather meaningful feedback, the provider used an independent professional to complete easy-read surveys with people using the service. The findings were used by managers to identify opportunities for improvement and further develop the service.

Inspectors found the registered manager provided strong leadership and maintained a clear focus on delivering high-quality care. Care plans were personalised to reflect each person’s needs, preferences and daily routines, while staff supported people to maintain healthy lifestyles and, where possible, reduce future care needs.

The report also found staff demonstrated a good understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and that the provider promoted a culture of continuous learning, innovation and ongoing improvement across the organisation.

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