ST Helens CCG has been rated Good – two years after being told it was ‘Inadequate’.

NHS England has published its 2017-18 annual Improvement and Assessment Framework (IAF) assurance ratings for all Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) in England.

The ratings provide a benchmark for CCGs so they can compare themselves to others and also gives regulators and partners an indication of where more support is needed.

In 2015-16, St Helens CCG was given an ‘Inadequate’ rating. This was changed to ‘Required Improvement’ in 2016-17 and has now been rated ‘Good’.

Geoffrey Appleton, governing body chairman of St Helens CCG, said the new rating is a “clear indication” the CCG is delivering strong, high quality and innovative care for patients.

He said: “This time two years ago we were given a clear remit to get a grip on our finances and balance our books, as well as improve our relationship with our providers and wider partners.

“This improvement in rating demonstrates our commitment over the past two years and shows that we have done just that in a short space of time."

Professor Sarah O'Brien, clinical accountable officer for St Helens CCG, added: “As we move forward we acknowledge the work that has been done and continue to develop plans that bring further control and management of our financial situation and strengthen our relationships.

“These plans are absolutely being done by working closely with our local health and care partners and we look forward to continuing to improve and maintain our high standards of work in the future.”