Eastbourne House care home rated outstanding by CQC

Eastbourne House, which supports up to 72 older people including those living with dementia, was praised for its compassionate and personalised approach to care.

In a routine inspection carried out in February, the CQC rated the home as outstanding in the categories of effective, caring, responsive, and well-led.

The home, operated by HC-One No.2 Limited, retained its previous rating of good in the safe category.

Alison Chilton, CQC deputy director for adult social care in the north, said: “At Eastbourne House, people told us they felt genuinely at home.

“We found an exceptionally skilled and compassionate team who empowered people to be themselves and live as they wanted to.”

Ms Chilton highlighted how staff went “above and beyond” to make residents feel valued, including helping a lifelong football fan celebrate their 100th birthday by arranging for them to walk onto the field with their favourite team and flip the coin to start the match.

She said: “They told us it was one of the best days of their life.

“Many other residents were celebrating in a local pub and watching the event on TV.”

The CQC noted that staff supported residents through difficult times with sensitivity and respect.

In one example, after a resident experienced a decline following a bereavement, staff encouraged them to take part in a fundraising activity in memory of their loved one, helping them reconnect with their sense of purpose and community.

Inspectors also observed that residents appeared happy and relaxed and spoke positively about the kindness and respect shown by staff.

They were encouraged to pursue their interests and take part in meaningful activities, while being supported to remain as independent as possible.

Staff used clear and accessible communication methods, such as picture menus, to help residents express their preferences.

The end-of-life care provided was also commended, with some staff choosing to sit with residents during their final moments even on their days off if family could not be present.

Leadership at the home was described as supportive, knowledgeable, and visible, with a strong culture of learning and continuous improvement.