A CARE agency has been given the highest possible rating after an inspection by the Care Quality Commission.

Domiciliary care agency Acute Need CIC, which is based on College Street in the town centre was found to be 'Outstanding' by inspectors.

The service provides care and support for up to five adults with complex needs due to an acquired brain injury and support is provided to people in their own homes.

The service was given the outstanding rating in all five categories – caring, safety, effectiveness, responsiveness and well-led.

Inspectors found that people were supported to live enriched lives and did what they chose.

A proactive approach was found to be taken to anticipating and managing risk to people to ensure they remained safe and staff encouraged them to be as independent as possible.

Helena Dennett, head of inspection for North West adult social care, said: “This is an exceptionally good service. Leadership of the service demonstrated a high level of experience and capability to deliver excellent care; they were extremely knowledgeable and inspired confidence and passion in the staff team.

“Staff had a very positive and pro-active approach around risk allowing people opportunities they may otherwise be denied. This allowed people the chance to live a more fulfilled life and to be free from restriction. For example, staff supported people safely to be involved in completing tasks that could place them at risk of harm such as preparing meals to develop their skills and independence

“The way in which assessments were compiled was outstanding in that they were completely individual and contained information and guidance specific to each person's needs and personalities. Staff told us the level of detail within assessments was exceptional in comparison to other services they had worked at."

She added: “This is an very caring service. People and family members had been given the opportunity to share information about their life history, important relationships, likes, dislikes and preferences. Staff used this information as well as positive interaction, to get to know people and engage them in meaningful conversations.

“Acute Need CIC has been rated as Outstanding in all five areas. They are delivering top class care and I congratulate all involved at the service, a fantastic effort and result. Well done.”