HEARTBEAT SPRING 2026
I am delighted to open this year’s edition of Heartbeat with the news that St Richard’s is officially outstanding! For the first time in the hospice’s 42-year history, it has been rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)—and we are hugely proud of this achievement.
I feel honoured to work alongside such amazing people who make a real difference to patients and their loved ones across Worcestershire every day. Inspectors noted in their report that hospice patients “received care and support that was exceptionally compassionate and kind”.
Reg. Charity No. 515668 Reg. Company No. 01850502
However, none of this would be possible without people like you who enable us to provide the level of care we do. With around 80 per cent of our income provided by our community, it is only thanks to the generosity of supporters that we can continue our work. This achievement is shared with our whole community, and we thank all of you for playing your part to enable outstanding hospice care for people in Worcestershire. You can find the report in full on the CQC website cqc.org.uk I hope you enjoy reading your 2026 edition of Heartbeat and wish you all the best for the year ahead. Mike Wilkerson, Chief Executive
The CQC is the independent regulator of health and social care in England. After an unannounced inspection, St Richard’s was awarded the highest overall rating possible in August 2025. While we have had time now for this news to sink in, it remains a source of pride as official recognition of the excellent care our teams provide to those navigating an incurable illness.
And another comment read: “Staff cared for patients and each other in a way that exceeded expectation and fully respected their privacy and dignity. Staff demonstrated genuine empathy for the patients cared for.” This rating marks a significant milestone for our hospice, the people we care for, our team— and our wider community.