East Surrey Hospital in Redhill has been rated “requires improvement” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), a step down from its previous “outstanding” grade. Inspectors visited in September 2024, and although the report has only just been published due to restructuring within the watchdog, some corrective measures have already been introduced.

The review highlighted declines in several key areas. “Medical care” dropped from outstanding to requires improvement, while “safe” and “well-led” both slipped from good to requires improvement. The hospital retained an outstanding rating for “caring” and a good rating for “effective” and “responsive”, but the overall result reflected the weaker scores in leadership and safety.

Paul Simpson, acting chief executive of Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, said the inspection took place during a particularly difficult period. He stressed that while inspectors acknowledged the dedication and compassion shown by staff, improvements were needed in how services were managed and in maintaining patient safety. He added that ensuring safe, high-quality care remained the trust’s top priority.

Since the inspection, the trust says it has taken significant action, including strengthening governance systems, introducing a round-the-clock Freedom to Speak Up service, and enhancing medicines safety protocols. Leaders at the trust say they are committed to regaining an outstanding rating across all services and restoring public confidence.