Saint Francis Hospice continues to be an ‘Outstanding’ organisation
Saint Francis Hospice continues to deliver ‘Outstanding’ care to local people, is the finding of the Care and Quality Commission (CQC).
Following an inspection on 31st July last year, the independent regulator for health and social care providers, published a report on Tuesday, 18 February 2025 praising the excellent care and support the hospice provided to people with palliative and end of life care needs.
The inspectors noted that “the Hospice demonstrated a strong focus on providing consistent, person-centered care with processes to allow continuous improvement. Staff felt supported, respected, and valued by their team and management. They described having a positive and supportive culture where the hospice encouraged further development and continuous learning. Staff described leaders as being visible and having a presence across the organisation.”
Grazina Berry, Chief Executive Officer at Saint Francis Hospice, said, “To achieve ‘Outstanding’ is a wonderful result that we are all extremely proud of.
“At a time when hospice care continues to be under-funded and the need for compassionate and person-centric services is rising rapidly, this recognition is not only a boost to morale for our teams of staff and volunteers, but a real badge of honour.
“To all of our supporters and donors, I say a huge thank you for helping us continue to provide much-needed care and at this outstanding level. We could not do it without you.”
As part of the rigorous process services were inspected to see whether they were safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.
“Inspectors met with care teams across all the services and spent time with people being cared for on the ward and their loved ones. They also attended meetings and joined nurses and care workers on visits to people in the community.
In the 14 days following the onsite inspection, the hospice was asked to provide data relating to over 40 questions about its care and services and gave the CQC access to more than 400 documents.
The hospice underwent a virtual review in 2023 and its ‘Outstanding’ rating was upheld. The previous full inspection took place in April 2016 when the hospice was rated Outstanding.
Tes Smith, Director of Services, Quality and Care, said, “I cannot adequately say how much this achievement means for the organisation and for those people who need our services.
“It is a whole organisation event to undergo the inspection and all staff, volunteers play an important part.
I feel so proud that the care we deliver is recognised as outstanding and as an organisation, we continue to be rate as Outstanding.
“I know our staff are delighted and proud too. People accessing our services at a challenging time for themselves can be assured that it is outstanding care they will receive. “
