Bishops Lodge in Hastings, East Sussex, has been praised by independent inspectors for the quality of care it offers to residents with learning disabilities.
In its latest report the Care Quality Commission (CQC) praised the team at Bishops Lodge for having "a clear set of values based on respect for people", "supporting people to pursue interests" and the level of freedom it encourages residents to exercise.
The CQC saw "people and staff chatting together in a friendly and relaxed way" and "observed people to have a good rapport and warm, friendly interactions with staff and the registered manager... people were smiling and relaxed in their home".
Staff, residents and their relatives have an excellent relationship and this was reflected in the fact that the CQC "observed a high level of positive energy and enthusiasm from people". A resident commented that "the staff are friendly and nice". A relative said that "if anything happened to me, I knew they would be well looked after".
Bishops Lodge encourages residents to pursue their own hobbies and activities. A resident told a CQC inspector: "I go to (the) Gateway disco and the sea cadets". Care workers help them to organise their own outings, and these include trips to see friends and family, as well as trips to the theatre.
The CQC commented on the specialist training available to staff. New team members undertake new 'care certificate' training, and all attend Positive Behaviour Support training.
Welcoming the CQC's report, service manager Julie Sinden said: "We are delighted with this inspection outcome. Staff, residents and their relatives have an excellent bond, and it is pleasing that the CQC recognises that this creates a very supportive and effective care regime."
For more information on the specialist services Priory Adult Care can offer, please call the enquiries and referrals team on 0808 208 2147 or click here to make an enquiry.