CQC rates learning disabilities respite service good across all domains
A "welcoming" and "supportive" Northamptonshire respite service for people with learning disabilities has been rated highly by the CQC.
Following an unannounced routine inspection in August 2025, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has now finalised its report for Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust's (NHFT) Learning Disabilities respite service at 1 Willow Close, Northampton. The service has been rated Good in every domain, with no regulatory breaches.
Anne Rackham, Chief Operating Officer at NHFT, said: "This is a brilliant achievement for the team and a reflection of the compassionate, safe, and responsive care they provide every day.
"I want to say a massive thank you to everyone involved in delivering and supporting the service at Willow Close. You are really making a difference, together."
A service that makes a real difference
Willow Close is part of NHFT's Mental Health, Learning Disability and Autism Care Delivery Pathway, offering respite for adults with learning disabilities and complex health needs.
The service plays a vital role in supporting individuals and giving families and carers the opportunity for a much-needed break.
As part of its inspection the CQC spoke with six families of people who use the service. Families were overwhelmingly positive about the service. They described it as "amazing", "unique" and even "life-changing".
The CQC visited on 12 August 2025 as part of a routine inspection - the first in some time - and reviewed the service against all five key questions.
Their findings confirm what many people already know: the team at Willow Close consistently delivers quality, person-centred care rooted in safety and partnership working.