MSI Reproductive Choices’ Bristol clinic has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) – only the second abortion clinic in England to receive the regulator’s highest rating, following MSI’s outstanding-rated clinic in Manchester.
The CQC rated the Bristol clinic, a leading provider of surgical and medical abortion services across the South West, as ‘Outstanding’ in its Safe, Effective and Caring categories, ‘Good’ in Responsive and Well-led and ‘Outstanding’ overall.
Inspectors praised the clinic’s safety culture at every stage of the care journey and the robust systems it has put in place to identify and respond to concerns such as domestic abuse, coercion and homelessness, reflecting the team’s deep understanding of the demographics and needs of the population they serve.
The clinic was also commended for ensuring care responded to individual needs, preferences, and backgrounds, offering a choice of appointments, treatment where clinically appropriate and improving accessibility with quiet waiting areas, clear signage and easy-read materials.
This personalised approach was reflected in patient feedback, with a satisfaction report showing 97.2% of women reported a positive experience, and 87.8% rated the service as “excellent”.
Women described the staff as “lovely”, “incredible” and “a credit to the service”. Inspectors also observed team members communicating in a reassuring, non-judgemental way during both face-to-face and telemedicine consultations and taking extra care to meet individual communication needs, including the use of British Sign Language interpreters.
Debi Hammond, MSI UK’s Bristol regional manager, said:
“This Outstanding rating is testament to the positive difference our team is making for everyone who needs or chooses abortion care. One in three women has an abortion in her lifetime, yet abortion can still be highly stigmatised. I hope this rating shows everyone in Bristol and beyond that if they trust us with their abortion care, they will be treated with dignity, respect and kindness every step of the way.”
Emma May, MSI UK’s Bristol clinical services matron, said:
“As an abortion care nurse, this recognition from the CQC is deeply meaningful, especially at a time when we see growing attacks on reproductive rights. We are proud to be a provider of inclusive, high-quality abortion care for anyone who needs it. No matter the reason for using our services, no matter what decision you make, we are here for you.”
Richard Bentley, MSI UK’s managing director, said:
“Being recognised by the CQC as the only abortion provider in England with two clinics rated Outstanding shows what is possible when the dedication and compassion of our incredible, local teams is underpinned by a culture of excellence and quality throughout the organisation. As health systems continue to focus on addressing inequalities, improving access and delivering value, MSI UK remains committed to working with commissioners to support the delivery of safe, high-quality, inclusive care across the country.”
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Notes to Editors
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