2026 CQC Review

Following their inspection in March 2026 – Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated Coombe House Residential Home in Cornwall as outstanding.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated Coombe House Residential Home in Cornwall as outstanding overall following an inspection in February and March 2026.

Coombe House Residential Home is a care home supporting up to 16 people living with dementia. On the day of the visit, 15 people were living at the home. CQC carried out this assessment as part of its ongoing schedule of inspections to ensure people continue to receive high-quality care.

CQC re-rated the service as outstanding for how caring, responsive and well-led it was. The ratings for effective was re-rated as good.  Safe was upgraded from good to outstanding.  

Stefan Kallee, CQC’s deputy director of adult social care for the South West, said:  

“During our inspection, we found Coombe House delivered exceptional care and it was clear that people were supported to live rich, fulfilling lives. The team had created an incredibly warm environment where people felt safe, known and deeply cared for.

“What stood out most was how confidently people were supported to make choices, maintain independence and stay connected to the things that mattered to them. Staff didn’t rush people or make assumptions, instead they took time to understand each person’s history, preferences and needs. That meant people experienced care that truly reflected who they were and what they loved.

“Leaders at Coombe House modelled compassion, curiosity and creativity, and their commitment to learning and improvement was obvious. They encouraged staff, families and health partners to share ideas, and they acted on this feedback to continuously enhance people’s experiences. Leaders also proactively shared person-centred insights with partners, driving simple changes that reduced distress and improved engagement with care.

We found the service was also committed to listening to feedback and using it to improve care. Insights from people and their relatives have led to positive changes, including tailored support plans and enhanced preparation for those moving into the home. The service has also introduced weekly community events, such as afternoon teas, to promote connection, wellbeing, and a welcoming environment.

“This is an outstanding home with a clear vision and a team who go above and beyond to make every day meaningful for people. We’ll continue to monitor the service as it maintains these high standards.”

Inspectors found:

Staff spoke positively about the support they received, which helped them deliver compassionate, personalised care every day.

Staff supported people to take positive risks, helping them stay independent and active, which led to improved mobility, confidence and wellbeing.

People moved freely throughout the home and gardens, including extensive outdoor areas, which helped reduce anxiety and increased their sense of control.

Staff knew people exceptionally well, recognising early signs of distress and responding immediately so people felt reassured and safe.

Mealtimes were sociable and relaxed, with people choosing, preparing and sharing food, which promoted appetite and encouraged social connection.

Staff worked seamlessly with health professionals to ensure people received timely clinical support, which prevented unnecessary distress and hospital admissions.

People shaped their own care plans, with staff adapting support instantly when needs changed so people experienced continuity and stability.

Leaders created a positive, inclusive culture where people, relatives and staff felt heard, which improved confidence and strengthened relationships across the home.