A care home in Purley, south London, has been rated 'outstanding' overall by the Care Quality Commission.
Amberley Lodge, Purley, which is run by Care UK Community Partnerships Limited, was rated 'outstanding' for being caring, responsive and well-led. It was rated 'good' for being safe and effective, following the inspection in October 2018.
The home specialises in dementia and end of life care. It provides care for up to 59 people and there were 49 using the service at the time of CQC’s inspection.
Inspectors saw that staff were exceptionally kind and demonstrated a real empathy and understanding of people with dementia. One person who used the service commented that “They are wonderful. Nothing is too much trouble.”
Inspectors found that Amberley Lodge was innovative in relation to end of life care. Staff were encouraged to speak openly and sensitively about death and dying and helped people plan the end of their lives with dignity. Staff had the skills to meet the needs of relatives when their family members died.
Leadership at Amberley Lodge was described by one person as ‘gold star’. Another said: “The care couldn’t be this good unless it came from the top.”
The service took part in the national care home open day earlier this year. The local community were invited to visit the home and take part in a range of activities showcasing the quality of care provided.
Debbie Ivanova, CQC’s deputy chief inspector of adult social care, says: “I am always pleased to hear about outstanding care and Amberley Lodge – Purley, is clearly a great place, with caring management and motivated staff.
“I was particularly impressed with the open and sensitive way that staff spoke to those in their care about planning the end of their lives with dignity.”
