Demelza receives outstanding CQC rating
Demelza has received an outstanding rating in its most recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) report, with inspectors saying it is an example to other services.
The assessment has rated the charity’s Kent service as outstanding overall, with exceptional recognition for being caring and responsive.
The report, which has just been published, found staff at the Sittingbourne-based hospice show “deep compassion during difficult end of life conversations” which helps families feel prepared and supported throughout their child’s journey.
Inspectors reported the charity works closely with NHS hospitals and other partners “to deliver joined-up flexible care to support family choice, continuity and dignity”.
The report also highlights that families feel able to contact staff whenever they feel worried and that the Demelza team responds promptly, resolving any concerns.
It also praised the strong learning culture, fostered by staff and leaders, which encourages people to raise concerns and share ideas; that Demelza shows an outstanding commitment to reducing health inequalities; that children and young people have a strong voice in shaping the service and that staff create innovative ways to support wellbeing beyond clinical care.
The CQC’s Deputy Director of Hospices, Secondary and Specialist Care for the South East, Amanda Williams, says Demelza provides exceptional care which puts children and families at the heart of everything it does.
She said: “Families told us the service respected their children's wishes and described the care as 'going above and beyond’.
“Leaders and staff at Demelza should be very proud of the findings of this report. Other services should look to this report to see if there’s anything to learn from it.”
Demelza’s Director of Clinical Services, Katie Stevens, said: “This achievement reflects the incredible dedication, compassion and professionalism our staff bring every day.
“We are not surprised as we know our staff embody Demelza’s values, but we are very proud the report is filled with praise for our work.
“The comments throughout [the report] reflect the heart of what we do – putting children and families at the centre of our care and that we support each other as a team.
“This isn’t just about a rating – it’s about the difference being made every single day in a service which families describe as life-saving.”
The inspection took place at the charity’s Sittingbourne site last May as part of the CQC’s routine monitoring of services.
“The comments throughout [the report] reflect the heart of what we do – putting children and families at the centre of our care and that we support each other as a team.”
