Image: Stockton on Tees deputy mayor, Cllr Bob Cook, resident Julie Stapleton, Rebecca Vickers regional manager and Laura Stokes manager
Beechwood House is a five-bed residential service in Norton, Stockton-on-Tees, supporting people with learning disabilities and autistic people. Inspectors praised the home’s inclusive culture, commitment to equality, and the way residents are supported to live as independently as possible.
The inspection report highlighted that ‘people were very positive about the quality of care’ and that ‘staff actively supported people to develop the skills needed to live more independently and reach their full potential’. Residents also shared positive feedback, with one telling inspectors: ‘I can’t fault them… now I can go out by myself which is wonderful,’ while another said: ‘All the staff are lovely and look after me well.’
Relatives echoed these sentiments, describing staff as caring and supportive, and noting that residents feel listened to and involved in decisions about their care.
The home was visited by Stockton-on-Tees deputy mayor, Councillor Bob Cook, who met residents and staff to see the support in action. Local MP Chris McDonald also praised the service in a letter following the inspection, highlighting Beechwood House’s commitment to inclusivity and resident involvement, including participation in an LGBTQ+ forum.
Registered manager Laura Stokes and her team have worked hard over the past 12 months to strengthen the service, with their next ambition being to achieve an ‘Outstanding’ rating.
Martyn Heginbotham, chief executive, said: “We are delighted with the outcome of this inspection and offer huge congratulations to the team at Beechwood House. They have created a safe, supportive environment where residents can thrive and grow in confidence. This ‘Good’ rating reflects the positive impact of that work, and we will continue striving for even higher standards.”
