Care Inspectorate gives Blackwood five star praise
A charity-run housing support service has been praised by the Care Inspectorate after it received a five star review of its services.
Blackwood’s North Support Services in Aberdeen recently underwent an unannounced inspection which saw it awarded five stars for its close attention to customer care, highly supportive staff and continuous implementation of support.
The inspection report accredited five star grades to the “staffing”, “care and support” and “management and leadership” categories.
In particular, Blackwood was heavily praised by those at the heart of its service, its customers, who highlighted the staff’s continuous efforts to allow them to maintain their independence, ensure that they are a part of their community and have the opportunity to try new experiences.
Customers and staff were thrilled with the five star score
Staff were also found to be attentive and approachable, as well as being respectful and considerate of customers’ opinions. Not only did staff seek out customer feedback, they also acted on it, therefore having a positive impact on people’s lives.
Linda McKay, manager of Raeden Court, one of the support services, was thrilled with the report and its five-star review.
She said: “Customers and staff were thrilled with the five star score. Such a score provides a great representation of how hard the staff work and highlights Blackwood’s aim of putting the health and wellbeing of our customers at the centre of everything we do.
“We are very focused on ensuring our management team is supported and kept up-to-date with the best practices and wider developments that impact on the local service.
“All of our staff receive regular supervisions, have a high level of training and are enthusiastic and committed to their roles.
“There is definitely a real sense of a team ethic and we are confident that our customers know and have working relationships with staff, to such a level where they feel able to express their needs freely.”
Blackwood chief executive Fanchea Kelly was also delighted with the outcome of the Inspection Report.
She said: “I’m really pleased with the five star review the North received for its committed and attentive staff and it’s great that the customers feel so at home and confident about sharing their opinions.
“It’s a testament to Blackwood’s commitment to providing a high level of care and support to customers and a further demonstration of our determination to provide respected and praised levels of care.
“The people who use Blackwood services are at the heart of shaping its future. Their experiences and input steer policy and innovation through involvement at all levels.
“Therefore, it’s fantastic to know that one of the key strengths is the care and support provided by the staff.”
Edinburgh-based Blackwood has more than 1500 homes throughout the country, helping those who are disabled, elderly or with sensory impairments to live more independently.
