Family-centred focus gains hospice outstanding rating

A nurse based at a children’s hospice recently rated as ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) attributes part of the success to the way patients and families are treated as individuals.

The Shooting Star House at Hampton, West London, received the rating following a CQC inspection that involved speaking to families, care and office staff, as well as managers. Care was observed and there were checks on patient records, policies and procedures.

One patient referenced in the CQC report said she had more faith and trust in staff at the hospice ‘than anywhere else’, while another described the care and consideration given to siblings as ‘nothing short of amazing’.

Nurse Elaine Wilkins told Nursing Children and Young People journal that one reason for the success could be that patients and families are treated as individuals.

‘Our care plans are detailed, down to notes saying whether a child wants the light on or the door closed,’ she explained. ‘Staff know what people like and what works.'

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Hospice's family-centred focus gains 'oustanding' rating from regulator