A single inspector carried out this inspection. The focus of the inspection was to answer five key questions; is the service safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led?Below is a summary of what we found. The summary describes what people using the service, their relatives and the staff told us, what we observed and the records we looked at. We talked to four people who used the service and one visiting relative.
If you want to see the evidence that supports our summary please read the full report.
This is a summary of what we found:
Is the service safe?
Risks to people had been identified, assessed and kept under review.
Incidents and accidents were recorded and analysed to identify any triggers. Systems were in place to ensure equipment was well maintained and safe for people to use.
CQC monitors the operation of the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards which applies to care homes. While no application had needed to be submitted at the time of our visit, proper policies and procedures were in place. Relevant staff had been trained to understand when an application should be made and how to submit one.
Appropriate arrangements were not in place to safely manage medicines. The medication administration records were not always accurate and it was not always possible to determine if people had been given their medicines as prescribed. This meant that people were not protected against the risks associated with medication. We have asked the provider to tell us what they are going to do to meet the requirements of the law in relation to the management of medicines.
Is the service effective?
People's needs were assessed and care and treatment was planned and delivered in line with their individual needs. It was clear from our observations and from speaking with staff that they had a good understanding of the people's care and support needs.
People were protected from the risks of inadequate nutrition and dehydration. People were provided with a choice of suitable and nutritious food and drink, which was freshly prepared in the home. Special diets were catered for including diabetic, vegetarian and soft diets.
Is the service caring?
Each person commented positively on the service they or their relative received. One person told us, 'Staff treat me well'. Another person told us, 'Everyone is kind, helpful and considerate'. We observed positive and caring interactions between staff and people who used the service. Staff greeted people warmly and there was a very happy atmosphere in the home.
Is the service responsive?
People commented that they felt staff would listen to any concerns that they had. One person told us, 'If I complain about anything, they sort it out'. Another person told us, 'I have no complaints, but if I had any concerns I would speak to the manager.'
Is the service well-led?
The quality of service provided by the home was regularly assessed and monitored. Regular audits were undertaken which included audits for health and safety, medication, care planning and infection control. This meant that people's needs were regularly reviewed and risks to their health and wellbeing were assessed and identified promptly.