Celebrating two more 'outstanding' MHA care homes

Two MHA care homes have been rated as ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), bringing the number of homes with the top class of care at the older person’s charity to six.

Starr Hills care home in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, became MHA’s first care home to be classed as ‘outstanding’ for the second time following its inspection and Briar Hill House care home in Rugeley, Staffordshire, was uplifted from ‘good’ by the CQC.

Inspectors told Starr Hills, a 36-place residential home, that its culture ‘continued to be extremely caring, compassionate, respectful and empowering which reflected the values of the service. There was a strong recognition that people were treated as individuals. All people who lived at the home and relatives spoke highly of the caring attitude of staff’.

The report added: "We observed and found many examples how Starr Hills continued to excel at their responsiveness to people's needs, choices and wishes."

The inspection team for Briar Hill House, which also cares for 36 older people, said: "People received extremely caring and kind support from staff who kept their dignity at the centre of all interaction. They were partners in their care and encouraged to make decisions about this.

"When they were less able to verbalise, staff understood their preferred methods of communication. They embraced family and advocate support and input in this. Staff went the extra mile to ensure people were happy and respected in their home."

Linda Zaidi, Acting Director of Care Homes for MHA, said: "Providing high quality care in all our homes is what we strive for. The teams at Starr Hills and Briar Hill House have demonstrated what great care is about. Their dedication to making sure every resident can live later life well embodies MHA’s values."

Annette Williams, home manager at Starr Hills, said: "Our aim at Starr Hills is to make sure we provide the best possible care for our residents. Retaining our ‘outstanding’ CQC report shows how all the staff at the home work to provide a home from home for everyone, making sure everyone’s needs are met in a caring environment."

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