STAFF at a specialist care home in Highbridge are 'delighted' after receiving a positive inspection score from the governing body.

The Lodge in Huntspill Road has been rated as 'good' by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for the second year in a row following an unannounced inspection in July

The home was rated as 'good' for being safe, effective, well-led and responsive and received an 'outstanding' rating for being caring.

In a report published in September a spokesman for the CQC said: "People were cared for by exceptionally kind and caring staff.

"Staff were committed to providing the best support they could for people.

"All staff were employed on the basis of their values with patience and empathy being key qualities.

"There was a very strong person-centred culture which all members of the staff team were committed to.

"People were safe at the service. The culture of the service was focussed on developing a safe environment both physically and psychologically.

"We observed people were calm and relaxed with staff and each other. Staff were highly skilled at maintaining a safe environment by using their knowledge of people to ensure any friction or difficulty was minimised."

The home, which can care for up to 12 people and specialises in caring for people with learning disabilities, was also praised for supporting residents who are on the autistic spectrum and helping them to live 'meaningful lives'

Emma Wood, registered manager and Natalie Eddiford, deputy manager at The Lodge, said: “We are delighted that The Lodge has been rated ‘outstanding’ for being caring, and ‘good’ overall by the CQC.

"We were very proud to see that the exceptional work of the staff has been recognised by both the inspectors and the relatives of those living at the home.”

And Rebekah Cresswell, chief operating officer of Priory Adult Care, said: “I want to thank Emma and her staff team for all the fantastic work they have done at The Lodge.

"It is very pleasing that inspectors have praised the home in many areas.

"Everyone involved with The Lodge has contributed to this significant success, and I hope everyone recognises how remarkable this achievement is.”