A service that helps people regain their independence after a serious accident or illness has retained its Outstanding rating following the latest inspection.  

 

Northumberland County Council’s South East Short Term Support Service (STSS) was inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to ensure the service is safe and well-led.   

 

The Blyth-based service provides a short period of support to people in their own homes to help them regain their ability to carry out a range of day-to-day tasks.  

 

Northumberland County Councillor Wendy Pattison, Cabinet Member for Caring for Adults, said: “This rating is welcome recognition of the committed and person-centred support provided by the team on a daily basis. 

 

“I am particularly pleased that people who have been supported by the team felt the service was outstanding and had successfully helped them to regain independent skills to remain at home.” 
 

Inspectors said people who used the service received high-quality, personalised support from an exceptionally well-led service, managers provided strong leadership and constantly considered how they could enhance the service. There was excellent teamwork and collaboration both within and outside the service. 
 

Inspectors highlighted that:  

• People said the service was "a godsend" and "outstanding". They unanimously described the significantly positive impact the service had on their confidence and regained independence.  
• People told inspectors: "I can honestly say that the progress I have made is more than I expected (because of them)" and "The carers were all very kind and seemed to want me to get back on my feet as much as I did. They built my confidence up again."  
• Staff were very proud to work for the service and said they received superb support from the organisation and their colleagues. 
• The service was regarded as a model of excellence by other providers and another local authority had recently contacted the service to see how they could replicate it in their area.