The CQC praised our team for their compassion, respect, and commitment to providing personalised support for people at the end of life and for the warm, inclusive culture that shines through in every aspect of care.

“People were truly respected and valued as individuals. Staff were passionate about providing care that was kind and empowering.” – CQC Inspection Report, 2025

Growing our own care team

As well as celebrating this fantastic result, we’re proud to have launched a new initiative that opens doors for people who want to begin a career in care.

Our on-the-job training programme supports new care assistants — even those without formal qualifications — to learn practical skills while working alongside experienced nurses and carers. It’s helping people from all walks of life build confidence, gain experience, and make a real difference to local families.

One of our newest team members, Lisa, joined the hospice six months ago. For her, the decision to move into palliative care came from a powerful personal moment.

“I once helped take a gentleman who was near the end of his life to hospital. He couldn’t say much, but when we talked to him, he’d squeeze my hand to let me know he was still there. When we arrived, his wife said, ‘thank you, you’ve made such a difference.’ That moment stayed with me, and I knew I wanted to do more palliative care; comforting people at the end of life and their families too.”

When she applied for a role at the hospice, she didn’t expect to hear back.

“I didn’t think I’d hear anything because I didn’t have the qualifications, but the hospice offered me the chance to train on the job. The support here is second to none and everyone’s so welcoming and friendly. I’ve never worked anywhere like this in my life”

Outstanding care in every moment

For Lisa, it’s the personal connections with patients and families that mean the most.

“When I first met one lady’s daughter, she wasn’t sure she could leave her mum with me. I told her, ‘I’ll look after your mum like I look after mine, I can’t do any better than that.’ After that, she completely trusted me. That’s what care is all about.”

These stories reflect what the CQC saw in their inspection; a team that goes above and beyond to deliver compassionate, person-centred care, every single day.

“We’re so proud of our team and of the care they provide. This rating reflects the passion and dedication that every member of staff brings – especially our new care assistants, who are learning and growing with such commitment.” –  Rachel Hucknall, CEO

Looking to the future

Last year, Nottinghamshire Hospice supported over 2000 patients and families across Nottinghamshire, offering at-home care, group wellbeing sessions, and emotional support and counselling.

We’ll continue to build on our success, developing new ways to reach people who need us and providing opportunities for local people to start rewarding careers in care.

If you’d like to learn more about joining our team or explore our training opportunities, visit https://www.nottshospice.org/current-vacancies/