27th March 2026
A GP practice in Chadwell Heath has received a positive first inspection outcome from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), with inspectors highlighting a strong culture of learning and a clear focus on patient-centred care.
Ashton Gardens Surgery was rated ‘Good’ across all five key areas—safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led—following an inspection carried out in November 2025. The report, published on 19 March, marks the first assessment of the practice since it re-registered under its new name in 2022.
A positive culture and commitment to improvement
Inspectors found that the practice has developed a proactive and open approach to safety, where staff feel supported to raise concerns and contribute to ongoing improvements.
The CQC noted that:
- There is a strong learning culture, with incidents investigated thoroughly
- Staff are encouraged to speak up, with clear systems in place for reporting and review
- Ongoing training and regular appraisals help maintain high standards of care
Facilities at the practice were also described as clean, well-maintained, and appropriate to meet patient needs, with risks effectively managed.
Delivering compassionate, person-centred care
The inspection highlighted a consistent focus on treating patients with kindness, empathy and respect. Staff were recognised for their commitment to delivering care that is tailored to individual needs, ensuring patients feel listened to and supported.
Areas for further development
While the overall findings were positive, inspectors identified a small number of areas for improvement. These included ensuring all clinical equipment is in date and strengthening processes around Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks prior to staff employment.
The practice has confirmed that work is already underway to address these points.
Practice response
Responding to the report, the team at Ashton Gardens Surgery welcomed the outcome, describing it as a reflection of their staff’s dedication and teamwork.
They also noted that positive inspection findings are supported by strong patient feedback, including results from the National GP Patient Survey and the NHS Friends and Family Test.
The practice emphasised its ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, recognising that maintaining high-quality care requires constant reflection and development.