AN independent specialist hospital is celebrating after being given an outstanding rating by a watchdog.

The Horder Centre in Crowborough was inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) earlier this year.

The centre was also given individual ratings of outstanding for its care, responsiveness and effectiveness and good for leadership and safety.

The centre, which specialises in orthopaedics, is one of only seven independent hospitals in England to be given the accolade.

Inspectors said staff at Horder, which is run by the charity Horder Healthcare, went the extra mile and the care patients received exceeded expectations.

Chief executive Richard Tyler said the staff were “absolutely delighted” as the rating proved caring was at the heart of everything the centre does.

He said: “This rating has only been made possible by an exceptional team of people who work tirelessly across the entire organisation to ensure the highest standards of care for our patients.”

The CQC’s report highlighted the hospital’s scheme for staff called the Horder Way.

This focuses on care, friendliness, quality, integrity and pride.

Staff told inspectors they were proud to work at the hospital and spoke of a family culture.

The centre has undergone a total refurbishment and redevelopment programme over the last eight years to create a therapeutic environment to help with patient recovery.

Inspectors said patients felt staff were caring, with one telling them the help they received was “second to none”.

The report said: “There were a variety of mechanisms to provide psychological support to patients and their supporters.

“This range of service meant that each patient could access a service that was relevant to their particular needs.

“For example these were those with spiritual need, patients whose first language was not English, or support for people living with dementia or learning disabilities.”

CQC hospital inspection manager for the South East Vanessa Ward said: “It is inspiring to see the Horder Centre was consistently ensuring their values were embedded throughout the organisation from ward level to board level.

“It was also developed as part of their performance management.

“The team should all be extremely proud of the work they do.

“I congratulate the staff for achieving our highest rating.”

Other highlights identified by the inspectors included patients feeling well informed and involved in their procedures and care.

The report said patients were also treated with compassion, care and dignity.