THOSE caring for mental health needs have been praised by health bosses for allowing people to 'remain as independent as possible'.

A team of health workers has earned glowing reports after an inspection for providing important respite care to those suffering with mental health concerns, eating disorders and those living with disabilities or complex needs.

New Lane care centre, run by Bolton Cares, gives short term accommodation and personal care for to up to seven adults with mental health needs, aiming to prevent hospital stays.

People can also stay at the centre in Breightmet after they have been discharged from hospital.

The inspection was carried out by regulator, the Care Quality Commission, which rated the service 'good' in all aspects, including safety, effectiveness, responsiveness, level of care and leadership.

Inspectors praised the service especially for allowing people to retain their independence while in respite care, they said: "We saw staff promoted people to remain as independent as possible and offered support when people were unwell. Staff encouraged people to make decisions about their care and their future. Staff supported people to attend meetings and plan for moving on. Staff observed people's privacy and dignity.

"People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests."

One user of the service told inspectors the staff were friendly: "The staff are nice and friendly, they are all in the right job. They talk to you over anything."

Chief Executive of Bolton Cares, John Livesey, said: “I am very proud of the team at New Lane. They work hard to deliver a high-quality service and this good inspection report would simply not be possible without them.

"What is particularly pleasing is that not only was the service rated as ‘good’ overall by the CQC, it was also all judged to be good in every inspection category.”