Meadowgate Centre rated ‘Good’ and ‘Outstanding’ following unannounced visit by Care Quality Commission

The outcome of a recent inspection of The Meadowgate Centre by the Care Q​uality Commission, which rated the service 'Good' and 'Outstanding', will be discussed at the Council's Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, 20 July.

The first full inspection of the 40-bed residential recovery and reablement service in Eston, took place unannounced on 10 May 2021, with inspectors reviewing the centre during a 'normal' working day.

The outcome of the comprehensive inspection demonstrated that the service achieved a 'Good' rating in four areas and an 'Outstanding' rating in the effectiveness of the service.

In their inspection report the CQC highlighted how: “Staff knew people and understood their needs really well. They demonstrated, kindness, compassion and concern. They had time to spend with them to build therapeutic relationships and provide specialist care to aide their recovery."

The 40-bed care centre in Eston opened its door to residents in December 2019 following a £5 million makeover. It was officially opened by Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal in February 2020 and provides personal care and rehabilitation services for people aged 65 years and over. It provides specialist support and therapy following serious illness or a stay in hospital, with the goal of maximising recovery and regaining independence so the person can return home to live in the community.

The centre has been at the forefront of the response to help the NHS to battle Covid, helping to move people out of hospital quickly and freeing up hospital beds for those people who have needed them. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the Meadowgate team and James Cook Hospital have worked together to give people at the centre high-quality care and rehabilitation support.

Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Cllr Mary Ovens said: “The Meadowgate Centre is committed to achieving the highest standards and quality of care for its residents which is demonstrated in the results and feedback from the recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission.

“Despite the challenges of the Coronavirus pandemic the service has continued to provide excellent high-quality care and it is testament to the professionalism and dedication of all the staff that the Council has received such a positive report."

Anne Readman was bedbound when she was admitted to The Meadowgate Centre and required a hoist and three members of staff to be able to get her out of bed. She was determined to go home and undertook a Physiotherapy programme.

With the help of the staff she was able to return home with no formal support and was even able to cook light meals for herself.

When Anne was asked if we were able to share her story, she replied: “Please do!"

“I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for The Meadowgate Centre, everyone was so lovely and gave me the confidence and determination I needed. I can't thank them enough. A few weeks ago I couldn't even get out of bed. Now I'm doing my own shopping again!"

Sharon Taylor, recently started work at the Meadowgate Centre as a Senior Reablement Assistant and is full of praise for the place. “I would just like to take this opportunity to let you know what an amazing team it is at Meadowgate," she said.

“I have had so much support and guidance in my new role and feel like I can always ask for advice. I have worked in the Healthcare profession now for fifteen years and have never found such a welcoming and helpful environment. The service provided here is amazing, to support someone's recovery and independence is such a brilliant feeling as a healthcare professional.

“I really enjoy my job and am looking forward to many more years to come."

For further information please visit www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/meadowgate