An Oldham homecare service has been rated 'outstanding' by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the health and social care watchdog.

Roxhsana Ltd, which trades as Visiting Angels Manchester East, received the top rating after people who use the service and their relatives said staff go 'above and beyond' and are 'like family'.

One family member told inspectors that when a service user went into respite care, her carers visited her in their own time and brought her flowers and chocolates. They said: "It was very much appreciated by [Name], she loves them."

The CQC said staff 'took time to listen' to people's concerns, encouraging them to express how they were feeling and helping them access support.

Another family member described a relative who was 'very depressed'. The service employed someone who could speak with them in their first language. The family member added: "They are eating more, and are smiling more, I think he [registered manager] relates, he doesn't just provide care, he provides the socialisation bit, he sees everything."

Staff concerns were also acted on promptly. When care workers raised worries about feeling vulnerable in the darker winter months, the provider responded by creating winter care kits containing torches with panic alarms, ice scrapers, reusable water bottles and snacks.

The CQC said recruitment processes were 'rigorous', ensuring 'suitable, skilled and safety-conscious employees' were hired, and that care was safe and 'person-centred'.

Inspectors described how care was adapted for one service user discharged from hospital. Staff used gentle therapeutic exercises and light massage techniques to reduce stiffness and increase movement in their limbs. Care was 'adapted daily' and progress monitored 'closely', with the person eventually regaining 'significant movement' and their pain reducing.