Riverbank celebrates first birthday and praise from national care regulator

Company news

Aug 14, 2013

The team at Riverbank residential complex care recovery centre in Hull is celebrating its first birthday and feedback from a recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection, which praised the dedication of colleagues and the quality of facilities available to people living with mental health conditions.

At the unannounced inspection a service user commented "It's one of the best places I've been in and I feel I am improving". Other service users said "I am very happy here and the staff understand me" and "I have a programme to work to and this helps me build my self-esteem."

During their visit CQC inspectors reported that Riverbank had been built to a “very high specification” and praised the various communal areas which include a “bistro style dining area, internet terminals, a coffee shop, music lounge and a quiet lounge that could be used for relaxation”. The service, which supports 36 people with mental health conditions, is run by independent health and social care provider Care UK.

The CQC report went on to say that the training offered to colleagues supporting service users helps to “maintain and improve high standards of care by creating an environment where clinical excellence could do well”. Colleagues commented they felt their personal development was supported, with one describing the training as “excellent” and “I felt prepared to take on my new role”.

During its first year Riverbank also tasted success at the Care UK Mental Health Awards. Chef Ushe Gumbo was presented with the Individual Achievement of the Year Award for the quality of his catering, with colleagues describing him as the “hero of Riverbank” and “an asset to our team”.

Ken Brown, manager at Riverbank, said: “Riverbank provides care for people at different stages of their recovery from severe and enduring mental health illnesses and our purpose-built facilities have been specially designed with living environments which complement the different needs of who we support. The past 12 months have been a journey for both service users and colleagues and I’m very proud of the progress we’ve made together. I would like to thank everybody for all their dedication and loyalty.”