17 September 2026

Outpatient services at Victoria Infirmary, Northwich have been rated Good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following a recent assessment. The service received Good ratings across all five key areas assessed: Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive and Well-led.

This latest rating reflects how Victoria Infirmary continues to play a vital role in delivering high-quality care closer to home. With a Good-rated Minor Injuries Unit, state-of-the-art surgical and ophthalmology services, and positive patient feedback, this latest Good rating for outpatients further reinforces VIN as a valued and trusted place to receive care.

For outpatient services specifically, the CQC report highlights positive patient experiences, compassionate care, strong teamwork and effective leadership across the service. Inspectors found that patients appreciated receiving care closer to home and spoke positively about the support they received from staff.

During the assessment, inspectors found staff worked well together, enjoyed working within the service and were committed to continuous improvement. Patients described staff as kind, caring, helpful and supportive, with many commenting positively on communication and the overall atmosphere within the department.

“We are delighted that Victoria Infirmary's outpatient services have been recognised with an overall rating of Good.

“This rating reflects the professionalism, compassion and commitment shown by colleagues every day, and I would like to thank everyone involved in delivering care within the service.

“We are particularly pleased that inspectors recognised the positive experiences reported by patients and the supportive culture within the department.

“We also welcome the feedback provided by the CQC on areas where we can continue to improve. We remain committed to delivering high-quality care and ensuring the very best experience for our patients and communities.”

Megan Nurse, Chair, Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

The report also recognises areas where the Trust can continue to strengthen services, including aspects of clinic utilisation and some operational processes. The Trust has welcomed this feedback and will continue its programme of improvement.

The full report is available on the CQC website - https://www.cqc.org.uk/location/RBT21/reports/LAP-02339/outpatients 

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