For the 8th time in a row Crookston Care Home continues to receive top marks across the board with happy residents and staff.

Following the most recent annual inspection by the Care Inspectorate, East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership managed Crookston Care Home, has once again been recognised for the high-quality care and support given to its residents.  

The 60-bed care home in Tranent received ‘very good’ gradings across each of the inspections assessment criteria, highlighting the dedication of the staff and management in ensuring residents receive the best possible care.

Since opening in 2014, Crookston has consistently achieved grade 5 ‘very good’ ratings from the Care Inspectorate against the assessment criteria which examines how well residents’ wellbeing is supported, and how good the staff team are. This latest unannounced inspection, conducted between 14 and 22 January 2025, reaffirmed this standard, as is the eighth consecutive time the Care Home has been awarded this grade 5 ‘very good’ standard. (There were no inspection visits in 2020 or 2021 due to Covid restrictions.)

The 2025 Inspection Report praised the home for its warm, compassionate interactions between staff and residents, strong relationships with local healthcare professionals, and a high standard of care that prioritises residents’ health, wellbeing, and independence. It also highlighted the positive impact of the homes staffing levels and the introduction of a housekeeper role, which has given carers more time to focus on direct care and support for residents.

A key strength identified in the inspection was the responsiveness of staff to resident’s needs. The report noted that assessments and checks were conducted regularly, ensuring that residents received timely support with nutrition, medication, and overall health.

Relatives of residents expressed confidence in the care provided, with one commenting: “She’s getting the right level of care. They don’t rush her; they encourage her independence. Always checking in on what she needs.”

Staff at Crookston were also commended for their teamwork and the supportive environment fostered by management. The report described managers as approachable and responsive, with both staff and external professionals recognising the strong communication and cooperation within the team.

Pauline Skead, manager of Crookston Care Home, commented: “I am incredibly proud of the team at Crookston Care Home for maintaining such high standard of care year after year. They make the difference, through their dedication and commitment to residents, and it shows. Not just in the inspection report, but from the fantastic feedback we receive from residents and their family alike.”

Fiona Wilson, chief officer of East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership, added: “We’re delighted to receive another glowing report from the Care Inspectorate regarding Crookston Care Home. The extensive team do an incredible job, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and we thank them for their continued efforts and devotion to their residents.

“Caring is such a personal occupation, which is often undervalued and appreciated. But we know just how rewarding it can be. For staff, residents are extended family members. We all care passionately about each resident’s personal wellbeing, which I’m pleased has been identified and reflected in the Care Inspectorates evaluation. 

“As the provider of health and social care services in East Lothian, our goal is to support individuals to live their best lives, as independently as possible, whether at home, or in a residential setting.”