A GLASGOW hospice was praised for having a "dedicated and caring team of staff."

A GLASGOW hospice was praised for having a "dedicated and caring team of staff."

The Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice (PPWH) scored highly in the Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) independent report.

The hospice - based in Carlton Place on the banks of the River Clyde - was subjected to an unannounced inspection visit on January 27.

The report, which was published yesterday, found that the quality of information, as well as, the staffing and environment was "excellent".

Inspectors scored the hospice care and support, as well as the management and leadership, as "very good".

Susan Brimelow, chief inspector of Healthcare Improvement Scotland, said the report "identified a small number of areas for improvement".

They include a need to keep records to demonstrate follow up investigations into serious incidents, and developing an adult support and protection policy with training for staff.

The hospice aims to provide high quality clinical, emotional, social and spiritual care to patients who have a progressive, life-threatening illness and supports more than 1200 patients and their families every year.

People can visit the day care service or symptom control clinic, receive visits from specialist nurses to their home or they can be admitted to the hospice inpatient unit.

Ms Brimelow said: "This inspection found a dedicated and caring team of staff who were focused on providing a high standard of care and comfort to patients and relatives.

"Patients spoke positively about the quality of care received and we found good links between the hospice and local NHS resources, as well as other charitable providers.

"However, we have identified a small number of areas for improvement including developing adult support and protection policies and training for staff, and ensuring the lessons and actions arising from accidents and incidents are addressed.

"This inspection resulted in two requirements and four recommendations which we expect The Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice to address as a matter of priority."

The findings have been welcomed by Rhona Baillie, the hospice chief executive. She said: "The report reflects well on the dedication and professionalism of the hospice staff.

"The comments from Susan Brimelow are welcomed and, together with my management team, we will build on this positive report and address the small number of areas where things can further be improved."

The Evening Times is backing the Brick by Brick campaign to raise £15million for a new hospice at Bellahouston Park.

rachel.loxton@eveningtimes.co.uk