The CQC said the trust had put patients and staff at ‘the heart of the decisions they made' and improved its culture following an inspection in April and May.

Charlotte Rudge, CQC deputy director of operations in the Midlands, said: ‘We found University Hospitals Birmingham had made many improvements to its leadership since our previous inspection. Leaders now provided a clear shared direction for the organisation which didn't just align plans and objectives but translated them into real action to improve people's care. They were also compassionate and inclusive, putting people at the heart of the decisions they made.'

Jonathan Brotherton, chief executive, said a devolvement of leadership had allowed decisions to be made closer to the patient and colleagues had an increased sense of belonging to the hospital or service they work in. 

‘Leadership and decision making is now made much closer to patients, and our hospital leaders have a much better understanding of local issues and are empowered to address them,' Brotherton said.

‘Our colleagues also have a greater sense of belonging to and pride in their hospital and in their service, which was reflected in the CQC's report.  

‘I am proud of all 25,000 colleagues who make UHB what it is and am grateful for their continued hard work and dedication to our patients and each other.'