Monday October 12th 2026
Murray House, Kelso
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
The chief executive of an award-winning Scottish Borders care home has expressed her pride after it received a ringing endorsement from inspectors.
Murray House is situated in the outskirts of Kelso and is currently registered to provide care to a maximum of 27 adults.
The home is split into three units: Murray House East, Murray House West and Evanthea House.
Two representatives of the Care Inspectorate paid an unannounced visit to the home last month.
Their subsequent report paints a positive picture of the service offered to residents there.
Key findings were that people benefited from trusting and positive relationships with staff, who were warm, compassionate and respectful.
Information and good practice were shared between the home and other agencies, which supported staff learning and development.
Therefore, people could be confident they were receiving the right healthcare from the appropriate professionals.
Managers were working pro-actively with pharmacy and other health professionals to strengthen practice in medication processes. Overall, people could be confident that they were supported safely with their medication needs.
Leaders had a clear overview of what was working well and where further improvements were needed and demonstrated a commitment to learning, improvement, and effective quality assurance.
The home was rated ‘very good’ for supporting people’s well-being and ‘good’ for leadership.
The report states: “People had very positive relationships with staff, whose manner was warm, compassionate and respectful.
“People told us staff were ‘very kind’ and one relative commented, ‘there are lots of really nice staff’.
“Planned activities were taking place, mostly on a one-to-one basis and were focused on people’s individual interests and preferences.
“The home had a relaxed, warm, and welcoming atmosphere. People had access to a range of pleasant outdoor garden spaces, which provided opportunities for fresh air and relaxation.
“One relative described the home as ‘light and airy’. Another relative valued the patio doors in their loved one’s bedroom, which provided immediate access to the garden.
“The homely environment supported people’s comfort, independence and overall well-being.”
Murray House’s Chief Executive Kelly Brown said she was delighted at the report’s findings – and thanked staff for their efforts.
She said: “It is a valuable opportunity to celebrate our service and the dedication of our team, who put so much care, warmth and commitment into supporting our residents every day.
“We are proud of the care we provide and ambitious about its future. We are driving forward service enhancements and developing the support we offer, with the aim of helping more people receive the care they need locally, close to their families, friends and community.
“Our residents are at the heart of this work. We want every enhancement to enrich their daily lives, give families confidence and reassurance, and help our staff continue to thrive.
“Our connections with the wider community are an essential part of creating a home where people feel valued, involved and connected.
“This is a moment to thank our team and everyone who contributes to life here, as we continue building on the service, we are so proud of.”
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