A SERVICE providing short breaks to adults with learning disabilities in Stockton-on-Tees has been described as “second to none” by the people who use it.
The glowing praise for the Council-run Lanark Short Breaks Service features in a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection report which rates it “outstanding”.
Its “exceptionally caring” staff and “strong sense of leadership” are also commended in the report, which is based on an unannounced three day inspection.
Based at 1 Lanark Close, the service offers hotel style accommodation, a gym, sensory and games rooms as well as a sensory bath and salon.
It also provides access to community venues and activities including discos, cinema, bowling, museums and festivals.
“We asked people and relatives what they thought about the service and all told us they believed the service was unique and delivered a service that was ‘second to none’,” the CQC report says.
“They found that over the last few years the staff had constantly strived to improve the service and make sure it became a place where people wanted to come back to time and time again.”
Councillor Jim Beall, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Services and Health, said: “To be rated ‘outstanding’ is a fantastic achievement and means Lanark Short Breaks Service can be considered one of the best of its kind in the whole country.
“The service is a shining example of how the Council is protecting and supporting vulnerable people to lead fulfilling lives by prioritising care services at a time of ongoing reductions in our Government funding.
“The report itself is packed with so many positives it’s difficult to know where to start but what jumps out is that the people who use this service and their families clearly think the world of it, and there’s no higher praise than that really.
“I’d like to thank all of the staff at 1 Lanark Close for the great work they are doing, not just in caring for people with a range of needs, but in supporting them to grow, develop and learn new skills and become more independent.”
To find out more about Lanark Close, and other services for adults and families in Stockton-on-Tees visit www.stocktoninformationdirectory.org