Excellent news from Leicester, where MacIntyre has been rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for the second inspection in a row.
The inspection took place over several days, with inspectors spending time with people in their homes, speaking with families and friends, and finding out about everyday life from the people who know it best.
The report fed back how people are supported by staff who know them well, listen carefully and take the time to understand what matters to them.
Inspectors noted that staff were "consistently observed engaging with people in a warm, respectful and person-centred manner" and that interactions were "relaxed and natural". They found that people were "extremely comfortable and confident approaching staff for support".
The report also highlighted the importance of friendships, interests and being part of the local community. Inspectors saw people being supported to maintain relationships, try new things and spend time doing activities they enjoy.
One example in the report described how people were encouraged to take on challenges that mattered to them personally, including completing a charity walk in Snowdonia and taking part in paddle-boating experiences.
Families spoke positively about the difference the team makes in their relatives' lives.
One family member told inspectors:
"They treat my family member as if they were their own. The kindness they show is remarkable. Absolutely happy, wouldn't change a thing."
Another said:
"Staff know exactly how to support them. They never rush, and they always listen."
Reflecting on a back-to-back Outstanding rating, Zoey added:
"Obviously the bar is set so high, and there's a bit of pressure to keep that Outstanding rating, but I'm so proud of the team to get this very deserved award.
"People are at the heart of everything we do and it's something we really live and breathe. The staff are what make us MacIntyre, supporting people to live their lives in the way they want to.
"I also want to recognise Jess, Sarah, Lyn and their teams. Their leadership, encouragement and belief in people has helped create a culture where everyone feels valued and able to do their best, and that runs right through the whole team.
"What makes me especially proud is seeing how much Everyone Everywhere shines through. Across Leicester we're always thinking about people's gifts, skills and passions, and how those can help people connect with others. Julie and Jenny, for example, have built friendships through a local arts and crafts group, Julie has found a welcoming local singing group where she enjoys sharing songs and stories with other members, and James, who wasn't sure about going to a monthly disco at first, now looks forward to dancing the night away.
"When we start with what people care about, opportunities grow from there. People become known locally, build genuine friendships and become part of their communities in ways that matter to them."
Congratulations everyone!
