Residents praise Bluebell House as care home gets ‘good’ CQC rating

Bluebell House Residential and Nursing Home is celebrating a positive Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessment that recognises the significant improvements made since Wokingham Borough Council acquired the home in September 2023 and appointed Optalis to manage and operate the service.

Published this month, the report is the first CQC assessment of Bluebell House since Optalis became the registered provider and provides independent recognition of the progress made across the care home.

Over the past two years, Bluebell House has undergone significant transformation. Improvements have included stronger leadership and governance, investment in colleague development, enhanced quality assurance processes and major upgrades to the building and facilities. Helen Woodland, Optalis Chief Executive Officer adds, 

"Since taking over the management of the home, our focus has been on creating a place where people feel safe, valued and supported, while building a positive culture centred on kindness, dignity and person-centred care." Together, these changes have improved residents' experiences, created a more positive culture and contributed to the home's Good CQC rating.

One relative said: “Every time we visit, we feel like we are visiting Nan at home, not somewhere she simply needs to be to stay safe. The team create so much more for her.”

The Council purchased Bluebell House to increase the availability of high quality, affordable dementia and nursing care within the borough, helping local people remain close to their families, friends and communities as their needs change.

During the assessment, inspectors heard positive feedback from residents and their families, who described feeling safe, respected and well cared for. They observed warm, patient and person-centred interactions between team members and the people they support, alongside a calm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the care home.

One relative told inspectors; “It's so much smoother now, and I can see huge and real improvements.”

The CQC recognised the substantial investment made in improving the care home's environment, noting that significant work had already been completed, with further enhancements planned to create a more comfortable, accessible and welcoming environment for residents.

Helen Woodland, Optalis Chief Executive Officer, added:

"This assessment reflects the significant journey Bluebell House has been on. Through the dedication of our colleagues, investment from Wokingham Borough Council and a commitment to continuous improvement, we have strengthened the quality of care, enhanced the environment and improved the experience of residents and their families."

"Achieving a Good rating is an important milestone and recognition of the progress made. While we are proud of what has been achieved, we remain committed to listening, learning and continuing to improve"