We inspected the Thomas Linaker Centre as part of the comprehensive inspection of Wrightington Wigan and Leigh NHS Foundation Trust. We rated the outpatient and diagnostic services at the Thomas Linacre Centre as good overall.

Our key findings were as follows:

• The hospital met the department of health target in providing appointments for patients within 18 weeks.

• Patients received care based on local and national guidelines. The breast screening unit performance was above national targets. A holistic service was offered to patients requiring treatment.

• Areas were visibly clean and tidy.

• Incidents were recorded and investigated appropriately Records were usually available, of good quality and stored securely overnight. Medicines were appropriately stored and were within expiry date. Risks were identified and mitigated. Nurse and medical staffing was adequate. Staff received appraisals annually and were given opportunities to develop their skills.

• Services were not operating seven days a week at the time of our inspection but occasional evening and Saturday morning clinics did take place.

• Patients told us staff were caring and we saw them deal with patients in a kind and polite manner and understood the principles of consent and best interest decision making. Staff were able to meet the needs of local people with translators available for patients whose first language was not English.

• Low numbers of complaints were received but details about complaints were shared in order to share learning.

• Service values were evident and staff and public engagement took place regularly. Staff felt that managers listened. Governance was in place and reviewed in monthly meetings. Risk was also managed and mitigated.

We saw outstanding practice including:

• The achievements of the breast team which deserve particular recognition. The staff achieved screening targets above national average and managed a large catchment area of patients. The specialist nurses ensured a holistic patient approach and considered psychosocial aspects of women having breast surgery by offering a complete service. There is evidence of continuous learning and participation in audits.

Professor Sir Mike Richards

Chief Inspector of Hospitals