MANAGER of Marlborough Lodge Jackie Harper has spoken of her delight the Care Quality Commission has rated her staff as giving ‘outstanding’ care to residents.

The family-run care home in London Road is the latest in the town to be inspected by the government watchdog, who paid an unannounced visit in September, resulting in an overall rating of ‘good’ this month.

“I think it reflects on the person-centred care that we are so proud of at Marlborough Lodge," said Mrs Harper, who has worked there for 18 years.

“It just validates everything we do here and is good that people who come into the home recognise the good work we do.

"The report is a good reflection on the staff and how hard they work and that they are very well trained."

Whether the service is safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led came under the spotlight during the inspection at the home, which employs 30 members of staff and is owned by Sue and Dave Harper, providing care for 18 people, some who have dementia.

Inspectors praised the ‘lively and energetic atmosphere’ and people and their relatives spoke positively about the care and support they received.

The report adds: “Staff were highly motivated and genuinely passionate about their role in the home. They spoke with pride about the service and focused on inclusion and promoting people's wellbeing.

“The home had a high number of staff at all times and they were highly committed to providing care that was centred on people’s individual needs. Staff described working in the home as one big family.”

Merlin Court, Coombe End Court and Keepence Homes in Pewsey were also inspected this year and received a ‘requires improvement’ rating.

Mrs Harper, of Ailesbury Way, Burbage, added: “We are not gloating, there are good care homes out there and we want people to know that.

“Sue our registered manager is very supportive, all her life has been dedicated to caring, whether in a social services background or here and she’s the driving force behind Marlborough Lodge."

The full report can be found here.