Working at Birches
Eton Avenue, Newark, NG24 4JD
Operated by Cygnet Learning Disabilities Midlands Limited
8 bedsResidential homes
Workplace Score
7.4/10
AI analysis of latest data
Our AI workplace review
PlainSight AI Review
Last updated: 10 February 2026
Score: 7.4/10
Key Finding
"Strong leadership, specialist training and positive team culture, although staff retention is unclear and activities lack a dedicated coordinator."
Safety & Risk
8/10
✓
2022: Assured safe IPC with effective PPE, testing, visitor checks, vaccination compliance; 2018: Strong safeguarding training, PBS risk plans, best practice medicines, incident monitoring.
Staff Culture
8/10
✓
Per 2018 comprehensive inspection: Staff reported good morale, felt valued with approachable manager, regular meetings, positive team atmosphere.
Staffing Levels
6/10
✓
Per 2018: Sufficient staff deployed to meet complex needs safely with skill mix considered, minimum levels reviewed and increased post-inspection; 2022: measures to mitigate COVID staff pressures.
Training & Dev
8/10
✓
Per 2018 comprehensive inspection: Specialist training in positive behavioural support, physical intervention, sensory awareness, communication needs, plus diplomas, inductions and regular supervisions.
Management
8/10
✓
Per 2018 comprehensive inspection: Registered manager led by example, worked alongside staff, strong supportive leader described as approachable by staff and relatives.
Programmes
6/10
✓
Per 2018 comprehensive inspection: Individual activity plans with community trips, pet therapy, trampolining, arts and crafts, sensory room, gardens; facilities include arts room, ADL kitchen, IT suite.
Points to consider
Staff numbers are enough to keep care safe with good skills mix, but no details on staff staying long-term or low agency use.
There were sufficient staff available and deployed to meet needs safely and effectively. (Per 2018 comprehensive inspection)
Daily activities mix in outings, pet therapy and crafts to break up routine care, but no specialist named programmes or coordinator.
People had their own activity plans and receive support with activities am and pm... pet therapy... arts and crafts. (Per 2018 comprehensive inspection)
AI Generated
CQC Inspection Overview
CQC Inspection
Last inspected: December 2018
Good
Safe
✓
Good
Effective
✓
Good
Caring
✓
Good
Responsive
✓
Good
Management Quality
Well-led: Good
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Chat on WhatsAppSources
- Care Quality Commission (CQC) Inspection Data
- PlainSight staff reviews