This inspection was carried out over two days which were 30 October 2014 and 03 November 2014. The first day was unannounced, the second day was announced. The last inspection was carried out 10 July 2013 and no breaches were found.
This is a residential care home for up to 24 older people. This home has a registered manager. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service. Like registered providers, they are ‘registered persons’. Registered persons have legal responsibility for meeting the requirements in the Health and Social Care Act and associated Regulations about how the service is run.
People felt safe and secure in the home. They told us they were comfortable and supported safely. Relatives were confident their family member was safe and well looked after.
The staff were knowledgeable about the people they supported and had been trained in safeguarding people. They knew what signs to look for regarding any poor treatment and who to report this to.
Staff were supported with an induction programme on commencement of employment and also continued training. The knowledge required by staff on the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) was evident during out discussions.
People who required special meals or supplemented diets were supported appropriately by kitchen staff who had gathered information on people’s likes, dislikes and dietary requirements when the person was admitted into the home. There was a choice of meals available at each meal time.
If health care support was needed, people were referred to the local doctor and district nurse as was necessary. Any subsequent advice and support provided was then followed by members of staff to promote the health of people.
Throughout the day we heard and observed caring and supportive conversations from staff with people living in the home. Members of staff spoke and behaved in a respectful, kind and caring way. Relatives told us that the staff were always very caring and knew their jobs.
The home had an activities programme and people had the opportunity to be involved when they wanted. People who preferred their own company were supported with one to one time to ensure they did not feel isolated.
People living in the home and relatives were confident that any concerns or complaints would be acted upon quickly and efficiently. Regular meetings were held with people and their relatives to discuss ideas and make changes as and when required.