‘Kind, respectful and supportive’ Castleton care company receives ‘Good’ CQC rating
Castleton care company Esk Moors Caring Ltd has received an overall "Good" rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the second highest rating it can receive.
Esk Moors Caring is a domiciliary care service supporting adults with a range of needs in their own homes, including older and younger people, people with dementia and those with physical disabilities.
At the time of the assessment, which took place on February 18 this year, 17 people were receiving a service.
The report, issued by the CQC on March 30, stated that people continued to receive good quality, person centred care.
People experienced a caring, respectful, and person-centred service where they felt safe, listened to and supported in ways that maintained dignity, independence, and equality.
People consistently reported positive experiences of the care they received. They said staff were ‘kind, respectful and supportive,’ and that carers took time to build meaningful relationships that helped people feel comfortable and well cared for.
Several people described staff as ‘warm’ and ‘attentive’ noting that carers interacted patiently and ensured they felt valued.
People felt their dignity and privacy were promoted. They described staff providing reassurance whilst maintaining safety and respecting personal boundaries, such as remaining nearby during personal care without intruding.
Staff were attentive to emotional wellbeing, adjusting their approach sensitively when individuals appeared less confident, anxious, or disengaged.
People said they were involved in day-to-day decisions and that carers respected their choices and preferences. Staff encouraged people to stay as independent as possible, including preparing food or completing routines where they preferred to do so themselves.
People valued the service’s efforts to reduce isolation and maintain community connections, particularly in this rural area. The provider offered accessible activities and supported access to a community vehicle for appointments and social events.
During severe weather, staff made proactive welfare calls to ensure people remained safe and supported.
Risks were assessed and managed well. Staff recognised individual vulnerabilities, responded appropriately to concerns and worked with people to help them stay safe. Systems for safeguarding, managing medicines and preventing infection were applied consistently.
Care was delivered in line with best practice, and assessments were thorough and regularly reviewed. Staff communicated well with each other and external professionals, helping ensure continuity and joined up care.
The service was well led, with a visible and supportive registered manager. Governance systems were effective, with regular audits, oversight of care documentation and a strong learning culture that supported ongoing improvement. Staff felt valued, listened to and confident to raise concerns.
People and relatives were consistently positive about the service and the reliability of care provided. There were no breaches of regulation, and previous good practice had been sustained.