Elliscombe House excels with an overall ‘Good’ in their first CQC Inspection.

Staff and residents at Elliscombe House are celebrating their first Care Quality Commission (CQC) rating of overall ‘Good.’ The CQC inspected the home on 1st November 2022 and rated the home, run by Ellie Group Ltd, as ‘Good’ in all five areas of the inspection – safe, responsive, caring, well-led and effective.

The inspectors spoke to staff, residents, family members and healthcare professionals during their visit and had nothing but praise for their findings; “People told us they enjoyed living at Elliscombe House. People were supported by kind, caring and respectful staff who promoted their independence and dignity.” Elliscombe House was noted often as having a “relaxed and calm atmosphere,” and that residents felt safe. The inspection team identified that residents “were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.”

Mealtimes are an important part of daily life at Elliscombe House, and the CQC acknowledged that “the catering team are enthusiastic about their role and how they engage with people using the service to understand the things people would like to eat.” The report states that, “the menu was seasonal and varied. All food was home cooked where possible.” Head Chef Ben, told inspectors, "I want everyone to enjoy good home cooked food. I want the opportunity for everyone to have healthy wholesome food and it's most important to me that they enjoy it."

Having previously been closed for several years, Elliscombe House was transformed into a luxurious residential and nursing home, re-opening to residents in late October 2021. “The home was clean, spacious and decorated to a high standard,” inspectors said. One health and social care professional volunteered that, "Elliscombe House is one of the nicest care homes that I have visited. It is not just the high standard of decor but the approach of the staff team that makes Elliscombe House into a real home."

Rachel Herniman, Deputy Manager and experienced nurse, asserted that, “Elliscombe house is like no other care home I have worked in. I am proud to have been here right from the start and to have welcomed our very first resident. We are a unique home, with a truly special team, and making memories with the residents is important to us.” The clinical understanding and support the management team offers, enhances the care provided.

Built in 1901, this elegant Edwardian house sits atop a hill and has a South facing aspect and sweeping views across the mature grounds and down towards the valley. With access to tended gardens and countryside views, one resident said, "It is very comfortable here. I have been able to put my room as I like it. I brought my armchair and my own things. The décor is very good. It is nicely presented, and the garden is kept up well. I have got a good view, sometimes I can see the deer if they come up into the top of the garden." Committed to supporting mind, body and soul in a nurturing environment, another member of staff said, "The environment helps the mind. People can see animals and hear the birds."

Elliscombe House celebrated their achievement with a celebration event on Friday, one of many social events and activities held at the home. It was wonderful to connect families, welcome visitors and share again in the friendships made here. It was testament to the deep sense of community and depth of caring that is shared by all.

The CQC reported that the home was “well-led and managed,” and that “people, relatives and staff spoke highly of the registered manager.” Carla Bowman, Home Manager at Elliscombe House and experienced nurse, says, “We are all really proud that our home has received a ‘Good’ rating following our first CQC inspection. It is fantastic to have the hard work and dedication from our Nursing and staff team recognised. We pride ourselves in providing true person-centred care to our residents.” A health and social care professional told inspectors, "When observing interactions between staff and the people who live at the home, I have seen warmth, compassion, and care."

Photographs by Katharine Davies, with thanks.