During our inspection we looked for the answers to five questions; Is the service caring? Is the service responsive? Is the service safe? Is the service effective? Is the service well led?Below is a summary of what we found. The summary is based on our observations during the inspection, speaking with people who used the service, the staff supporting them and from looking at records.
Is the service safe?
People who used the service told us that they felt safe and were well cared for and supported by care workers. They told us that they would speak to a care staff or one of the managers if they had any worries or concerns. A relative of a person who used the service told us, "I don't need to worry now my relative (person's name) is here; they were at risk in the community but not now."
People were protected from unsafe or unsuitable equipment because the equipment used in the service was serviced and maintained. We looked at a number of service records and certificates which showed maintenance tests and services were carried out.
We asked staff if there was anyone subject to a deprivation of liberty safeguards authorisation (DoLS), and although there was nobody currently requiring a DoLS authorisation staff were aware of the requirements of the Mental Capacity Act and provided assurances they would refer people for a DoLS authorisation as necessary.
We looked at the employment records of four members of staff. We saw either criminal record bureau checks or disclosure and barring service checks had been completed for all staff.
Is the service effective?
People's health and care needs were assessed where possible with them or their relative. Specialist dietary, mobility and equipment needs had been identified in care plans where required.
Is the service caring?
We observed staff were respectful and considered people's privacy and dignity when providing care. Staff spoke in a respectful manner and knocked on people's doors before entering their rooms. A relative of a person who used the service told us 'I am really happy with the care provided to my relative (person's name). The staff are really good, they always keep me updated."
We saw details of surveys completed by people who lived at Cedars Care Home and their 'significant others'. The form asked for 'examples of what The Cedars does well' and 'where The Cedars can improve'. One person had said 'from what I can see the care is excellent' and another person said, 'the residents are well cared for and all the staff are caring people'.
Is the service responsive?
We saw the complaints policy displayed in the reception area of the home and each person's bedroom.
The provider took account of people's concerns; a comment on a recent survey was that the car park was too small. In response to this the size of the car park had been increased.
Is the service well led?
Meetings were held on a regular basis for people who used the service and staff. We saw evidence of meeting minutes which documented what had been discussed and any follow up action needed from feedback received. One member of care staff told us, "The management team listen to what we have to say in staff meetings and act on it."
The operations manager showed us their detailed and comprehensive quality assurance records. These included systems and audits in place to assess and monitor the quality of service provided in all areas of the home.