- Carlton House rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission for residential support provided to autistic adults and people with learning disabilities
- Inspectors praise compassionate, person centred care that promotes independence, confidence and meaningful outcomes
- Residents and relatives describe the service in Leeds as warm, inclusive and life changing, with one person saying, “I would rate this place a thousand”
- Almost 90% of Priory adult care services nationally are now rated ‘Good’ or better by regulators, 16% above the national benchmark
Priory Carlton House has been rated ‘Outstanding’ overall by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), with inspectors highlighting the home’s culture, highly personalised support and empowering approach to care.
Carlton House – in Rothwell Haigh, Leeds – is a residential care home supporting people with learning disabilities and autistic people.
Inspectors described the service as delivering compassionate, holistic and tailored support that consistently promotes independence and ensures meaningful outcomes for the people who live there.
The home supports people to live fulfilling and self-directed lives, helping residents to develop confidence, build independence and pursue both everyday goals and long-term aspirations. Inspectors praised the warm and inclusive culture across the home, noting that people were encouraged to gain new experiences and take greater control over their daily lives.
Feedback from residents and relatives was overwhelmingly positive. One resident told inspectors: “I would rate this place a thousand”, while another said: “I like it here, they keep me safe.” A further resident commented: “I never want to live anywhere else, and I want the staff to all stay here too, I am happy here.”
Relatives also praised the impact the service had made on their loved ones lives. One family member said staff had “welcomed them with open arms” during a particularly difficult period, while another said: “It is safe, always clean, tidy, really warm and welcoming. I really would not want [my relative] to be anywhere else.” Another described the team as “amazing”.
Priory operates more than 200 working-age adult social care services nationally, with almost 90% of sites (89.6%) rated good or better 'Good' or better by independent regulators, which is 16% above the national benchmark.
Inspectors highlighted how Priory Carlton House staff worked closely with residents to help them achieve significant life goals and increase their independence. Residents were supported to attend college, undertake voluntary work, learn new skills and access community activities tailored to their interests and aspirations.
One resident was supported to gain a fishing licence and take part in fishing trips after sharing their passion for the hobby, while another was helped to work towards future employment opportunities through college courses aligned with their interests and strengths.
The report also praised the home’s strong leadership and positive workplace culture, with staff describing leaders as approachable and compassionate. One member of staff said: “The registered manager is one in a million, they are there for everyone and help in any way they can, they give 100% all the time.” Another said: “I feel humble and very grateful to be able to work here and support the people I do.”
Laura Pearce, Service Manager at Priory Carlton House, said: “We are incredibly proud to have achieved an ‘Outstanding’ rating and for the dedication of our team to be recognised in this way. Everything we do is focused on supporting people to live meaningful, independent and fulfilling lives, while ensuring they feel safe and valued.
“This report reflects the compassion and commitment shown by colleagues across the home, as well as the trust placed in us by residents and their families. We are passionate about helping people achieve their goals, however big or small, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.”
Rebekah Cresswell, Chief Executive of Priory, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Carlton House and a powerful reflection of the exceptional care and leadership within the service. The report highlights a culture where people are truly placed at the centre of everything, with staff going above and beyond to support residents. The impact this service has on people’s lives is inspirational.
“It is particularly encouraging to see such positive feedback from residents and relatives. I would like to congratulate the entire team on this well-deserved recognition.”