YOUR story featuring the CQC inspection report on Highborder Lodge paints quite a negative picture.

My mother, who is 90 with mild dementia and serious mobility problems, has lived there for almost a year now.

Having visited relatives at various residential and nursing homes over many years, I have not encountered better care than that provided at Highborder Lodge. The CQC found cleanliness, food and staff training to be good, and that all residents said they felt safe and well looked after.

I have always found staff and managers to be approachable and responsive.

An issue rightly highlighted by the CQC and SNJ was inadequate staffing levels. This has been addressed since the inspection, so that staff are now able to spend more quality time with residents.

CQC found that staff treated people with understanding, kindness and understood the importance of respect and dignity.

There was a genuine sense of fondness and respect between the staff and the people using the service.

This is hugely important in ensuring the happiness of people such as my mother, and I congratulate the staff old and new on the care they provide.

Nigel Hewston

Uley