New Care Quality Commission rating for Blackpool's Adelaide Surgery GP placed into special measures last year

A Blackpool GP surgery has been rated ‘Good’ across all five inspection categories after making significant improvements since being placed in special measures last year.

Adelaide Surgery, based on Elizabeth Street, received the rating following an assessment carried out between July 6 and July 20, 2026. The report was published on September 16. The practice, which provides services to approximately 15,000 people, was previously placed in special measures on August 14, 2025.

Inspectors found the surgery had made wide-ranging improvements across its systems and practices and was no longer in breach of regulations relating to safe care and treatment, good governance and fit and proper persons employed. As a result, the practice is no longer rated as inadequate overall or in any of the key questions and has been removed from special measures.

Improvements across the practice

The assessment rated Adelaide Surgery ‘Good’ for safety, effectiveness, caring, responsiveness and leadership. Inspectors found the practice had developed a positive learning culture in which patients could raise concerns and managers investigated incidents thoroughly.

Staff understood how to manage risks, while facilities and equipment were clean, well-maintained and suitable for patients’ needs. The report also found there were enough staff with the appropriate skills, qualifications and experience. Staff received training and regular appraisals to help maintain standards of care.

Inspectors said medicines were managed well, with patients involved in decisions about changes to their treatment. Care was based on current evidence and good practice, with staff working alongside other agencies to support patients and ensure smooth transitions between services.

The assessment also highlighted the importance placed on informed consent, with staff ensuring patients understood their care and treatment options.

Patient feedback largely positive

Inspectors found patients were generally positive about the quality of their care and treatment. Recent survey results, including those from the National GP Patient Survey and the NHS Friends and Family Test, showed most patients were satisfied with the services provided, although some results were slightly below national and local averages.

The practice also has an active Patient Participation Group, which represents the views of patients using the service. Feedback from a local care home was positive, with the organisation describing the practice as responsive, highlighting its excellent communication and consistent support.

Inspectors also found patients were treated with kindness and compassion, with staff respecting their privacy, dignity and individual preferences. The practice was found to provide fair and equal care, with work in place to reduce health and care inequalities through training and patient feedback.

Leadership and future improvements

The report praised leaders for creating a culture based on listening, learning and trust. Staff said they felt supported, were treated equally and could provide feedback without fear of bullying or harassment.

Managers were described as visible, knowledgeable and supportive, with a focus on helping staff develop professionally. Inspectors also found the practice worked with the local community and encouraged staff to test new ideas, supported by time and resources.

Adelaide Surgery operates its main site on Elizabeth Street, alongside two branch surgeries on Gorton Street and Kentmere Drive, also in Blackpool. Its services include maternity and midwifery care, family planning, surgical procedures, diagnostic and screening services, and treatment for diseases, disorders and injuries.