Dorset hospice rated outstanding for the first time following inspection
Regulator praises Lewis-Manning Hospice Care for exceptional service
Lewis-Manning Hospice Care in Dorset has achieved an Outstanding rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for the first time, marking a significant milestone in its history.
The hospice was previously rated as Good, but an unannounced inspection by the regulator on the 8th, 16th, and 22nd April 2026 highlighted its exceptional standard of care.
The inspection report commended Lewis-Manning’s delivery of services as 'exceptionally caring' and 'exceptionally responsive,' positioning it as a model of outstanding practice for other hospices to follow.
Over the last year, Lewis-Manning's palliative care team supported 484 patients across east Dorset and Purbeck, providing a range of services including clinics, Health and Wellbeing groups, Hospice at Home care, and virtual support.
During this period, the team made 4,611 patient contacts and facilitated 429 care sessions, maintaining connections for those who could not visit the hospice.
Clare Gallie, Chief Executive of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, expressed pride in the recognition, stating, "Being rated outstanding for the first time is a landmark moment for Lewis-Manning and one of the proudest in our history. It reflects the extraordinary skill, compassion, and determination our teams bring to patients and families every day. More than 1,450 people turned to us for support last year, and behind every figure is a person trying to retain their independence, a family needing guidance, or someone learning to manage a symptom that has changed their daily life."
Lewis-Manning's services extend beyond palliative care, addressing both physical and emotional challenges presented by serious illnesses. The charity offered 2,200 counselling sessions to 512 individuals and provided specialist care contacts for breathlessness and lymphoedema. These services are funded entirely by the hospice to ensure free access for local residents.
The inspection findings highlighted how patients are 'truly respected and valued as individuals,' with the support they receive contributing positively to their lives. Patients shared experiences with inspectors, noting the profound impact of the hospice's care. One individual described how "When I walk into Lewis-Manning I feel like I am wrapped in a cloud of warmth and happiness."
CQC inspectors were particularly impressed by the hospice's anticipatory approach, designed to reach individuals earlier in their care journey. This method helps reduce pressure on healthcare services such as GPs and hospitals, as patients are supported to maintain independence in their homes. Additionally, Lewis-Manning’s partnership with local health and care entities and its efforts to eliminate barriers to accessing care were noted as strengths.
Acknowledging the honour of being an example for other hospices, Gallie said: "Too many people still think palliative care begins at the very end of life. Our work starts much sooner. We help people understand their illness, manage difficult symptoms, retain their independence, and make informed choices. It is about adding life to years when adding years to life is no longer possible."
"To be held up as an example for other hospices is an enormous honour. The recognition belongs to our staff, volunteers, partners, supporters, and the Dorset community. We will build on it to reach more people earlier, because the five referrals we receive each day show how constant the need for our care truly is," Gallie continued.
Lewis-Manning's robust volunteer base, comprised of 271 individuals, plays a crucial role in various aspects of the charity's operations, including patient transport and fundraising. With only 12% of its funding sourced from the NHS, the hospice relies heavily on community contributions, raising £1.66 million last year, alongside generating £1.7 million from its retail division.