Care homes in Wigan Borough are continuously improved with 88% now rated as ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ following an ongoing programme of care home reform in the Borough.

Wigan Council has been working closely with providers to improve quality of care for residents as part of the programme.

In 2017, on 55% of the Borough’s residential homes were rated as ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ by health watchdog, the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Care providers, in 2016, were encouraged to bid to the council’s Innovation Fund for a portion of £2m to make the homes for the future.

The portion has supported residential and nursing care and helped address issues the sector is facing including an ageing population and difficulties retaining staff.

Councillor Keith Cunliffe, deputy leader and cabinet member for adult social care and health, said: “Our aim is to ensure every home provides excellent, kind and compassionate care to residents and their families.

“This improvement in quality of care has been achieved through developing great relationships with providers based on shared goals and values. Our providers have absolutely embraced The Deal and our different way of working and it is clearly having a positive impact.”

Earlier this year, Wigan care homes were ranked as the third most improved care homes in the UK over the last 12 months out of 151 local authorities.