We’re proud to share that Willow Burn Hospice has been recognised by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for our ‘Outstanding’ responsiveness, following our most recent inspection.
Overall, the hospice was rated Good, with inspectors highlighting our strong leadership, improved governance and most importantly our commitment to putting patients and their families at the heart of everything we do.
The report reflects what matters most to us: listening to those we care for and shaping our services around individual needs. Inspectors saw how our team works closely with families and partner organisations to ensure each person receives compassionate, personalised support.
We were especially pleased to see feedback from patients, relatives and our community recognised within the report. Feedback continues to guide and strengthen our services, with surveys showing 100% positive responses. One family shared: “Your team went above and beyond to ensure comfort, dignity and wellbeing—it meant the world to our family.”
Our CEO, David Barker MBE, praised the dedication of staff and volunteers, recognising the compassion, care and commitment shown every day.
Willow Burn Hospice continues to provide specialist palliative and end-of-life care across County Durham, including in-patient care, day services, bereavement support, counselling and education for families, carers and the wider community.
