The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has published its well-led assessment for East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT).
The review took place in November last year. It provides a snapshot of the Trust as it was at that time and since then, there have been many significant changes.
The report recognises the Trust’s clear vision and strategy, strong partnerships with local organisations, commitment to sustainability and the dedication shown by teams across ESNEFT.
The assessment also identified several areas of focus. These include:
- Making it easier for colleagues to speak up
- Creating a more inclusive workplace
- Strengthening how risks are identified and managed, and
- Making sure learning leads to lasting improvements.
In a joint statement, ESNEFT’s Chief Executive Paul Scott and Trust Chair Tracy Dowling, said: “We accept and recognise the findings of the CQC’s well-led assessment and the opportunities it highlights for us, as a new leadership team, to continue improving.
“It is important to remember that inspectors visited almost a year ago and the report reflects ESNEFT as it was at that time. Since then, there have been some considerable changes at the Trust. This includes the arrival of a new Chief Executive, Chair and Director of Governance. Work is also continuing to strengthen our leadership team.
“The report recognises many of our strengths, including the dedication of our staff, our strong partnerships and our clear vision for the future. We are grateful to colleagues across ESNEFT for the commitment, professionalism and compassion they show every day.
“We have already acted on several of the issues raised during the assessment, and more improvements are underway. We now remain focused on strengthening governance, supporting an open and inclusive culture, and continually improving our services.
“Looking ahead, one of our key priorities is a significant programme of engagement with patients, communities and our staff to help shape the culture, behaviours and values that will define ESNEFT in the future.
“While there is more work to do, we have a strong foundation to build on. We are committed to becoming the organisation our patients, communities and staff rightly expect and deserve.”
About the assessment
The well-led review took place from 24 to 27 November 2025. It followed CQC inspections of medical care (including older people’s care) and urgent and emergency services at both Colchester and Ipswich hospitals.
The inspection came at a time of major organisational change after the introduction of a new electronic patient record at ESNEFT. It was also the start of a challenging winter period for teams.
The overall rating of ESNEFT’s well-led domain (how the Trust is run) has dropped from good to requires improvement.
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