University Hospitals of North Midlands rated Outstanding for caring following 2021 CQC inspection

University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust has been rated ‘Outstanding’ for caring following its inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The CQC has now published its official report confirming the Trust’s rating following two focused inspections of two core services at the Royal Stoke University Hospital and County Hospital during August and October 2021. Outstanding is the CQC’s highest rating and has been achieved for caring during what has been the toughest time for the NHS.  The Trust also saw its rating for being well-led improve and is now rated as ‘Good’.

UHNM is rated as Requires Improvement overall as well as for whether its services are safe, effective and responsive.

The inspection team noted that there has been an improvement since its last inspection and while managing considerable challenges during the significant impact from the Covid-19 pandemic, the Trust had continued with its important change and improvement programme, Improving Together.

Tracy Bullock, UHNM Chief Executive said: “I am delighted that the hard work and commitment of our staff has been recognised.  To be rated outstanding for caring, whilst managing the changes and pressures during the Covid-19 pandemic, is a fantastic achievement and a true testimony to their dedication and compassion. 

“We have made some significant improvements since the CQC’s last inspection and we are pleased the inspectors found many areas of outstanding practice.

“We recognise there is still much to do and have already started work to address the areas the inspectors have highlighted for improvement.  We are committed to providing the best possible care for our patients and have approved and begun a programme to recruit more than 30 new doctors to work in our Emergency Departments. We will continue to develop all of our services as we aim to achieve an overall rating of outstanding for both our hospitals.”