A nationally recognised award deems Manchester's Heathlands Village a leader in palliative care.

The Prestwich home, run by the Federation of Jewish Services, has been accorded beacon status, placing it in the top 20 per cent of 245 care facilities which have the Gold Standard Framework accreditation. It is also an example to other providers.

Heathlands clinical manager Sue Cleary said the training needed to achieve the award had "helped us to dramatically reduce the number of people who have to transfer to hospital at the end of their days".

FJS board member Dr Simon Jenkins added: "What we are able to provide at Heathlands fills a major gap in provision of care which cannot be met in hospital, or in the community. It has particular relevance to Jewish patients who need hospice care."

Sylvianne Sykes, whose husband Brian spent his last days at Heathlands, was "especially touched by the sensitivity of the staff and their endeavours to maintain his comfort and dignity.

"We always hoped his final days would be spent at home with his family and that his passing would be calm and peaceful.

"Having Brian at Heathlands Village was a next-best substitute and we are most grateful."