Home care service rated 'outstanding' by watchdog

A care and support service for adults in Doncaster is performing "exceptionally well", according to a watchdog.

Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspectors visited Age UK Doncaster in May to assess the service, which provides care for people with dementia and other care needs in their own homes.

The service, previously rated as "good" following a previous inspection in March 2020, has been upgraded to "outstanding", with service users and their families praising the "absolutely excellent" care.

CQC inspectors praised the efforts made to assess people's needs and preferences while promoting independence and developing confidence.

Age UK Doncaster staff were recognised in the CQC report for being "extremely caring and respectful", with more than 40 people using the service at the time of inspection.

The leadership team was found to be "visible, extremely knowledgeable and supportive".

Victoria Marsden, CQC deputy director of adult social care in the north, said: "Promoting people's wellbeing was central to the service.

"Staff ran a 'befriending' programme, which matched people in their care with others who held similar interests to combat social isolation.

"At Christmas time, staff and leaders organised visits and gifts for those identified as being at risk of loneliness."

She added: "Everyone at Age UK Doncaster should be very proud of their dedication that is having a positive impact on people's lives."

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