A care home has achieved the highest possible rating in its first inspection under new ownership.
Eastside Gardens in Wallsend has been rated 'outstanding' by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), a dramatic improvement from its previous 'requires improvement' rating when it operated as Howdon Care Centre under different ownership.
The nursing home, which provides accommodation, nursing, and personal care for up to 90 people - including those living with dementia - was praised for high standards of care, leadership, and responsiveness.
Alison Chilton, the CQC’s deputy director of adult social care for the North East, said: “We found an exceptional service which was incredibly welcoming and homely, where people were cared for by highly skilled staff.
"Care at the service was exemplary.
"It was clear that people were respected and valued as individuals and were directly involved in planning and reviewing their care.
"Staff planned person-centred activities with remarkable attention to detail around people’s needs and preferences, which improved their wellbeing.
"And it was lovely to see how people had personalised their bedrooms, which were designed to meet their needs.
"Overall, staff and leaders should be incredibly proud of the culture they have created to ensure people get the very best care outcomes and certainly deserve the hugely positive feedback."
Inspectors found that the home, now operated by Prestwick Care, was well-equipped to deliver high-quality care.
They noted that facilities and equipment were adapted to meet individual needs, staff were well-trained, and leaders had an open culture focused on driving quality and improving people’s experience of care.
This marks the first time in the North East that a nursing home rated 'requires improvement' has risen to 'outstanding' in a single subsequent inspection.
Prestwick Care, which operates 20 care homes in the North East, is part of Malhotra Group Plc.
Bunty Malhotra, CEO of Malhotra Group Plc, said: "We are delighted to have been declared outstanding at our very first inspection since taking over Eastside Gardens.
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"It is only appropriate that the staff and management receive the recognition they deserve for their dedication, hard work and commitment but, most of all, for their care.
"Significant investment has been made by the Group in restructuring the home, which has resulted in a complete transformation and sincere thanks for this must also go to our project and design team."
Earlier this year, another Prestwick Care facility, Blythgate Manor in Blyth, was also rated outstanding in the area of care.
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