The inspection found the trust had made sufficient improvements to comply with a warning notice issued in October 2026 over staffing and systems and processes, however, the CQC found further work was needed to ensure people received safe care.

Gill Hodgson-Reilly, CQC deputy director of operations in the North West, said: ‘The trust had taken some action to improve staff vacancies and sickness rates, however, they weren't fully embedded and more changes were needed to reduce risks to people's safety.

‘Leaders also needed to reduce people's length of stay in hospital, readmissions following surgery, and improve its discharge processes. The trust needs to prioritise this, so people receive the care they need in a timely manner, without being in hospital longer than they need to be.   

‘However, it was positive to hear that staff treated people with compassion and kindness and considered their individual needs. They also told us that they felt there were enough staff on the wards who responded promptly to their needs.'

NCA deputy chief nursing officer Karen Coverley: ‘The CQC noted we've sufficiently met the requirements of the warning notice they issued us last year and that we've made progress in areas, including staffing arrangements on wards, safeguarding, patient safety processes, surgical safety compliance and the management of deteriorating patients.

‘The safety and quality of care for our patients remains our absolute priority and we will keep our full focus on the improvement we know we still need to do.

‘The CQC's inspection took place less than two months after the introduction of our new clinically led operating model. While we have made progress, we recognise that some of the changes needed are significant and will take time to fully embed across the organisation.

‘Our regulatory actions and improvement requirements form part of a single integrated improvement plan, which is subject to regular oversight and scrutiny. This allows us to track progress, address areas of concern and ensure improvements are embedded and sustained.

‘We will continue to work closely with the CQC, NHS England and our system partners to deliver further improvements and ensure our patients receive safe, high-quality care.'