Cygnet Brunel in Bristol has been awarded an ‘Outstanding’ rating by Headway, recognising its pioneering care for brain injury patients
Inspectors praised Cygnet Brunel’s care and inclusivity after awarding it an ‘Outstanding’ rating. (Credit: Submitted)
A hospital specialising in neuropsychiatric care has been recognised for excellence after receiving an ‘Outstanding’ rating from a leading brain injury charity.
Cygnet Brunel, which treats men with acquired brain injuries and neurodegenerative conditions, was praised by Headway, the Brain Injury Association, following a detailed review in June as part of its Approved Provider Scheme.
The scheme evaluates hospitals, rehabilitation units, residential services and respite facilities against bespoke standards designed to meet the complex needs of people living with brain injuries.
Headway inspectors awarded Cygnet Brunel outstanding ratings in four of six areas: culture, workforce development, service delivery, and governance.
The report highlighted the hospital’s creation of a Family Therapy service, a new Practice Clinic for routine health checks, and refurbishments including personalised bedrooms, upgraded communal spaces and gardens. Inspectors also commended its Tackling Racism initiative, describing it as an example of best practice in inclusivity.
Staff training and development were also praised, with assessors noting the reduced use of agency staff and the ability of the workforce to adapt to complex needs.
In their summary, Headway assessors wrote: “Community meetings and various therapeutic groups are actively engaging service users in their care and rehabilitation processes. The unit continues to maintain high standards… Work such as the Tackling Racism initiative, as well as the push to provide a new Family Therapy service, indicates a unit keen to improve the service it offers.”
Hospital manager Jamie Green said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this outstanding rating from Headway. It reflects the dedication, compassion and expertise of our team and the inclusive, therapeutic environment we’ve created.
“Over the past year, we’ve worked hard to embed a culture of continuous improvement, where everyone, from frontline staff to senior leaders, feels empowered to innovate and make meaningful contributions. This recognition reinforces our belief that by listening to our service users, supporting our workforce and engaging families in the care journey, we can deliver life-changing outcomes.
“I’d like to thank every member of the team for their commitment and passion. This achievement belongs to all of them.”
Cygnet Brunel, based on Crow Lane in Henbury, operates 32 beds and is part of the Cygnet Health Care division.