St Anne’s Community Service, a proud partner in Forward Leeds, the alcohol and drug service, is thrilled by the recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection rating of the service as “Outstanding”.

Detailed as ‘highly innovative’, the report goes on to state that the service “truly considered the needs of different groups of people using its service” and that the “staff treated clients with compassion and kindness and respect”.

Former user of the service Mathew Sharp said: “It is fantastic to see Forward Leeds recognised as an outstanding service. It was remarkable to have their support and help through my recovery. They are always there for you. The staff are amazing, they work with you, they understand what you’re going through and will help you understand yourself”.

As part of the inspection, the CQC spoke to ten clients and one carer. Everyone they spoke to provided positive feedback about the service. Clients stated that the staff were really supportive and caring and went above and beyond and had really helped them to move forward with their lives. They added they were told that the service felt like a safe place and that clients felt respected and not judged.

Azra Kirkby, Chief Executive Officer for St Anne’s Community Services said: “We are truly proud to be part of the Forward Leeds partnership.

“The inspection stated, Forward Leeds worked extremely effectively with its partner organisations… enabling highly effective collaboration.

“The commitment and dedication of all the teams working so effectively together, to support individuals and communities across Leeds is outstanding. The report is a testament to their hard work and truly person-centred approach.”

Forward Leeds Director, Lee Wilson said: “This is fantastic news for our service and the city. If the report highlights one thing above anything else, it’s that we are a caring service whose staff always do the best for the people they support. The report shows the level of commitment our teams have to deliver the best possible service and outcomes for people using our service as well as their families and loved ones.”

The full report is available to read online from the CQC website www.cqc.org.uk

For more information see here.