The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated The Soke, South Kensington, as outstanding following the clinic’s first inspection in November 2021.
The independent mental health and wellness clinic treats adults, young people and children for a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders and addictions.
The inspection was carried out as part of the CQC’s checks on the safety and quality of services, to ensure people receive the standards of care they deserve and have a right to expect.
As well as being rated outstanding overall, The Soke was also rated outstanding for being effective, caring and well-led. It was rated good for being safe and responsive.
Jane Ray, CQC head of hospital inspection, said:
“It was very impressive to see The Soke, as a relatively new service delivering excellent standards of care to those who need its help and support.
“People we spoke to said therapists were kind and supportive and were key to bringing about positive change in their lives.
“The clinic’s people-focused approach is central to its ethos, with individuals directly involved in their treatment plans and being given choice about their care.
“Those using the service were kept fully informed about their treatment and actively encouraged to provide feedback on the care they received to ensure the best experience for them and to support the clinic’s continual improvement.
“Other providers should look to this report, to see what they can learn from The Soke and the excellent care they are providing.”
The report found that services were easy to access, and people were respected and valued as individuals. They were treated with compassion and kindness, with staff working collaboratively with them and their families and carers to meet individual needs and preferences.
Tailored services were delivered by a wide range of specialists and clinicians, while staff also ensured people had the correct support for any physical health needs, working closely with GPs and community services to ensure joined-up care and treatment.
People’s privacy and dignity were respected at all times, while communication, advocacy and cultural and spiritual needs were also fully supported.
The design and layout of the clinic was found to promote wellbeing, with several relaxation areas available for those wanting a calm, quiet place to spend time and unwind. These could also be used as separate waiting areas for those who preferred not to be in the communal lounge.
The Soke also funds the Soke Foundation to support the work of local organisations delivering mental healthcare in the community.
Full details of the inspection are given in the report published on our website.
For enquiries about this press release please email regional.engagement@cqc.org.uk.
Journalists wishing to speak to the press office outside of office hours can find out how to contact the team here (Please note: the duty press officer is unable to advise members of the public on health or social care matters).
For general enquiries, please call 03000 61 61 61.