Casa Mia Care Home in Far Forest rated outstanding

Casa Mia Care Home, in Far Forest, was given the highest possible rating following an unannounced inspection in January.

The home provides residential care and rehabilitation to 36 people, most of whom have mental health issues ranging from paranoid schizophrenia to drug and alcohol abuse.

An inspection report, published this month, described Casa Mia as having a "vibrant and welcoming atmosphere where visitors were welcomed and encouraged".

It said people were "at the heart of the service" and that residents received care which was "highly responsive to their individual needs".

Inspectors found staff promoted independence and provided "exceptional individual care which took account of people's life histories", while the provider was "passionate" about providing high quality care.

Clients were supported to have the maximum choice and control of their lives and received a nutritious diet with a choice of food, the report said.

One resident who had recently moved to the home described the owner as their "best mate" and managers described residents and staff as "family".

Inspectors rated the care home 'outstanding' in two areas - caring and responsive - and 'good' in three categories - safe, effective and well-led.

Martin Winfield, who runs Casa Mia with his wife Michelle, said: "It's rare to be rated outstanding - particularly in the responsive category.

"Not a lot of care homes will offer the rehabilitation aspect like we do. Where possible we'll rehabilitate people back into the community by teaching them the skills they've lost - like cooking, shopping and washing.

"We also have a full time occupational therapist on site. We really go the extra mile for all of our clients.

"We couldn't have achieved this without such a great team of staff."

Casa Mia was first opened in Cleobury Road in 1983 by Mr Winfield's parents as a care home for the elderly, and later expanded to cater for people with mental health problems and learning difficulties.

The couple's two sons, Josh and Jake, also work at the home.

Mr Winfield added: "There were a few objections when we first expanded into mental health - some of our neighbours even launched a petition.

"I like to think we've helped to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in the local area. We've had great support from the parish council and district planners.

"Most of these people have had really terrible starts in life, so it's great to have somewhere like this to give them the support they need - when they need it most."