The Maples achieves ‘Good’ rating in first-ever CQC inspection

An innovative Lifeways supported living service in Mansfield is celebrating after achieving an overall ‘Good’ rating in its first Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection. 

The Maples, which comprises five purpose-built bungalows and a staff hub, provides support for adults with learning disabilities, autism and mental health conditions. The service was rated ‘Good’ following an assessment in October 2025. 

Some elements of provision were rated ‘outstanding’ by inspectors in areas such as “learning culture” and “people’s experience” while leaders were rated outstanding in two areas - “capable, compassionate and inclusive leaders” and “learning, improvement and innovation”. 

This marks a significant milestone for The Maples, which opened in 2023 and was inspected for the first time under CQC’s updated framework. 

The CQC assessed the service against five key areas – Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive and Well-led – with all categories achieving a ‘Good’ rating. 

Key strengths highlighted: 

• Person-centred care – Support plans reflected individual preferences, communication styles and goals, enabling people to lead confident and inclusive lives. 

• Safeguarding excellence – Staff demonstrated strong safeguarding knowledge, with concerns logged and reported promptly to external agencies. 

• Proactive risk management – Risks were assessed holistically, enabling people to maintain independence and engage in meaningful activities. 

• Purpose-built environment – The service was designed to reduce triggers and promote independence, with assistive technology supporting less intrusive care. 

• Robust staffing and training – Safer recruitment practices and values-based interviews ensured staff were skilled and aligned with organisational ethos. 

• Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) – Embedded PBS and Active Support approaches promoted skill development and reduced restrictive practices. 

• Strong leadership and culture – Leaders demonstrated openness, integrity and innovation, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. 

• Evidence-based practice – Trauma-informed care and commitment to national initiatives like STOMP supported positive outcomes. 

• Innovation in care – Use of discreet digital monitoring systems enhanced independence while maintaining safety. 

Amy Gilbert, Managing Director for Lifeways’ supported living division, said: “The team at the Maples does truly exceptional work with people with extremely complex needs so to receive a good rating – with some outstanding elements - at its first inspection is absolutely incredible. 

“It is a fantastic testament to the team members and managers who work so hard and diligently to deliver great quality support in a nurturing and safe environment.” 

Registered Manager Katie Butlin added: “We are extremely proud to have achieved a ‘Good’ CQC rating, which reflects the consistent, high-quality support delivered every day at The Maples. 

“Our team is deeply committed to making a genuine difference to people’s lives, and this result is a strong endorsement of their dedication, compassion and professionalism. It also motivates us to keep learning, developing and innovating as we continue striving towards an ‘Outstanding’ rating.” 

Inspectors used observations, documentation reviews and feedback from relatives and professionals to assess people’s experiences, as some individuals were unable to share their views directly. 

Relatives praised the service, with one commenting: “The care is great, the environment is great. The staff are great.” 

Find out more about The Maples here: Maples | Lifeways