Rochdale Infirmary has been rated ‘Good’ in all areas by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following an unannounced inspection.
The regulator’s report, published in January 2026, praised the Infirmary’s Clinical Assessment Unit, Oasis Unit and endoscopy department for their positive safety culture, kind and compassionate care, and strong infection prevention practices.
Inspectors found that all five key domains assessed by the CQC, safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led, met the criteria for a Good rating. Their findings followed interviews with patients, visitors and staff, as well as an on-site visit to key departments and a formal session with senior leadership.
Medical services were observed to have a positive culture where safety concerns were properly addressed and learning shared across teams. Mandatory training compliance was high, and staff were quick to act when patients’ conditions deteriorated. Care was based on national best practice, infection control standards were upheld, and patients said they were treated with dignity and respect.
However, the report did note staffing levels were not always in line with peak activity. While baseline staffing was usually met, inspectors said numbers sometimes fell short of what was required for fluctuating demand.
Despite this, patient feedback was largely positive. Many described their care as compassionate and well-communicated. Some, however, expressed confusion over being transferred from other hospitals without clear explanation.
Juliette Cosgrove, Chief Nursing Officer for the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, said the CQC’s comments on staff commitment to safety and patient experience were a source of pride.
Steve Taylor, Chief Officer of Rochdale Care Organisation, said: “I am really proud of our teams. I work alongside these fantastic people every day and I’m pleased they’re getting recognition for the good care they provide to our patients.”
The inspection took place between 8 and 24 July 2025 and focused on medical care, including older people’s services. The full CQC report is available online.
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