Ark House

This means we looked for evidence that service leadership, management and governance assured high-quality, person-centred care; supported learning and innovation; and promoted an open, fair culture. At our last assessment we rated this key question as good. At this assessment the rating has changed to outstanding. This meant service leadership was exceptional and distinctive. Leaders and the service culture they created drove and improved high-quality, person-centred care.

We found that leaders had the skills, knowledge and experience to perform their roles effectively. Staff knew and understood the service’s vision and values and how they applied to the work of their team. Staff we spoke with felt respected, supported and valued. Governance processes operated effectively to provide oversight of the service. Performance and risk were managed well within the team. Staff had access to the information they needed to provide safe and effective treatment to clients, and leaders collected data about outcomes and performance which were used to improve the service.