- Care home
Red Oaks
Assessment report published 9 November 2026
Contents
Ratings
Our view of the service
Date of Assessment: 8 to 19 October 2026.
Red Oaks is a nursing home providing care and support for up to 63 people, including people living with dementia. There were 59 people using the service during this assessment. We carried out this assessment due to the age of the home’s existing CQC rating and to obtain an up-to-date view of the quality of care.
People experienced exceptional kindness, dignity and highly personalised support. Their histories and preferences shaped everyday care. Personalised support enabled them to retain control over everyday life, fulfil wishes, maintain relationships and continue valued community roles, promoting independence, confidence and purpose. When their participation reduced, the service explored the reasons and adapted support, helping people regain confidence and connection. People were supported to retain control over their routines and continue activities that gave their lives meaning. The provider’s commitment to staff wellbeing helped sustain this person-centred culture.
Care was exceptionally flexible and tailored to people’s changing needs, rather than expecting them to fit established routines. Detailed care plans, life-story information and regular reviews supported continuity. Staff proactively removed barriers to participation. Exceptional end-of-life support honoured people’s wishes while coordinated specialist support and practical assistance for families promoted comfort, dignity and continuity.
Outstanding governance and a sustained approach to learning supported improvements in people’s care. Leaders used care information and feedback to identify risks, take action and review outcomes. Leaders promoted inclusion, learning and innovation, alongside clear responsibilities and an open culture. Exceptional partnerships with health professionals and community organisations improved people’s health, independence and quality of life. One professional said, “If I were looking for a care role or a nursing role, I would love to work here. That feeling comes from seeing first-hand the kindness, teamwork and genuine commitment to residents' wellbeing that exists throughout Red Oaks.”
People’s safety was protected through effective safeguarding, risk management, safe medicines practice and infection prevention. Individual risk assessments guided support, including pressure care and emergency evacuation. Incidents were recorded and reviewed so learning could inform changes to care. Recruitment checks, induction and training supported safe care.
Assessments and regular reviews informed evidence-based care. Staff monitored nutrition, hydration and changing health needs, made timely specialist referrals and supported choice and consent. People spoke positively about meals and healthcare access. Accessible information and communication support enabled people to understand choices and remain involved. Resident ambassadors, individual discussions and regular meetings gave people meaningful influence over their care and the service.
People's experience of this service
People and relatives described care that made them valued as individuals. One person said, “It’s like a first-class hotel, with care. That’s the thing- the care.” Personal touches reflected people’s preferences, needs and wishes. Our observations showed patient reassurance, explanations and choices when people needed support. One person said, “They do everything outstandingly well.”
People experienced exceptional personalisation that helped them feel understood and valued. Care reflected people’s histories and preferences. Staff also helped families share meaningful moments. One person said, “Care comes first here. Everything is well organised.”
People’s wishes led to opportunities that restored valued parts of their lives. People described opportunities to maintain friendships, enjoy activities and make everyday choices. One person said, “I’m quite independent. They know I’m independent and I want to do for myself.” Another told us, “We do go out on regular trips to garden centres. I am never bored.” Relatives described personalised food preferences and companionship for people cared for in their rooms.
People had meaningful influence over the service, and innovative partnerships improved their daily lives. People and relatives described suggestions and ideas being actioned, and issues leading to changes in support. One person said, “Things raised at the last one were sorted. It seems to be working well.” Resident ambassadors helped represent people’s views and supported video calls maintained close family relationships. A relative visiting after a bereavement said, “I would recommend the home to anyone.” People felt safe and spoke positively about meals, cleanliness and access to healthcare.