LOCAL CARE HOME CELEBRATES GOOD CQC RATING

Staff and residents from South Chowdene care home in Low Fell, Gateshead are celebrating because the home passed a recent Care Quality Commission inspection with an overall ‘Good’ rating.

The CQC inspected the home in September 2025 and rated the home, run by Barchester Healthcare, as ‘Good’ overall. South Chowdene was praised for operating a responsive, safe, effective, caring and well-led service.

The report stated that South Chowdene was very well-led and that the provider, registered manager and staff team were passionate about people's well-being and went above and beyond to help people achieve their goals and aspirations by building their confidence and breaking down barriers to increase independence.

The report highlighted some of the feedback the inspectors had received on their visit. It was packed full of positive comments from residents, relatives and healthcare professionals such as: We observed warm, compassionate interactions and staff demonstrated good knowledge of residents’ needs. One person said, “The staff are all really kind here. I never wanted to come into a home, but I am glad I came here.” Another relative told us, “My mother only came for a couple of weeks after hospital but decided to stay because she was so well looked after.”

It continued with further comments such as: “Some people had very limited verbal communication. We used a structured observation tool to assess whether they received good care. This approach showed people were included and listened to, and staff worked with people in a sensitive, caring and considerate manner. Relatives also found staff were extremely kind and respectful. People said they felt listened to and involved in decisions about their care, and relatives confirmed they were kept informed and comfortable raising concerns. One relative explained, “If I have had any concerns regarding her care there, I have felt at ease talking to members of staff and they are always resolving situations.”.”

In celebration of their ‘Good’ rating, and to thank members of staff for their dedication to the home, each team member was presented with £100 gift voucher in appreciation of their hard work at a party for the team, residents, friends and family. Everyone enjoyed a glass of fizz and

Anca Chis, General Manager at South Chowdene said: “We are delighted that South Chowdene was rated Good overall following the CQC’s most recent inspection”. The entire team at South Chowdene always strive to provide the best possible quality care for everyone who lives at the home.”

The full CQC report can be read here: South Chowdene - Care Quality Commission

South Chowdene Care Home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. South Chowdene provides nursing care for residents from respite breaks to long term stays.

click here for more details or to contact Barchester South Chowdene Care Home