The inspection was carried out by one inspector. We considered all the evidence we had gathered under the outcomes we inspected. We used the information to answer the five questions we always ask;' 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.
If you want to see the evidence supporting our summary please read the full report.
Is the service caring?
People's preferences, interests, aspirations and diverse needs had been recorded and care and support had been provided in accordance with people's wishes. People told us they were happy with the care provided at the service.
Risk assessments were completed which ensured staff knew how to keep people safe. People had been involved with the formulation of their care plans and where people needed support to make informed decisions this had been provided. Health care professionals, for example doctors and district nurses, had been consulted and their advice sought when people needed more specialist care and attention.
Is the service responsive?
The service had a complaints procedure which people could access. People were therefore assured that complaints were investigated and action would be taken as necessary. The provider consulted with people about how the service should be run and any issues were addressed. People were consulted about their care needs.
Staff followed instructions from visiting health care professionals for example doctors and district nurses. This ensured people received the care and attention they required to meet their needs.
Is the service safe?
The service was safe, clean and hygienic. Equipment was well maintained and serviced regularly, therefore not putting people at unnecessary risk.
The manager sets the staff rotas, they took people's care needs into account when making decisions about the numbers, qualifications, skills and experience required. This helped to ensure people's needs were met.
The provider had policies and procedures in place for staff to follow to report any abuse they may witness or become aware of. Staff also received training about how to keep people safe.
Is the service effective?
People's health and care needs were assessed with them and they were involved in writing their plans of care. Specialist dietary, mobility and equipment needs had been identified in care plans where required. People were provided with a wholesome and nutritious diet and their dietary needs were monitored. Health care professionals were consulted if required.
Is the service well led?
The provider consulted with people about how the service was run and took account of their views. People who had an interest in the care and attention people received had also been consulted and their opinions taken into account about how the service was run. Staff received training which equipped them to meet the needs of the people who used the service. The provider also gave staff the opportunity to gain further qualifications.
What people who used the service and those that matter to them said about the care and support they received.
People told us they were satisfied with the care they received. Comments included, 'The staff are really kind and caring, they help me stay independent', 'The girls come and help me get up in a morning' and 'I just have to press my buzzer and they come and help me.' People were involved in their care. They told us, 'I have meetings about my care plan and my daughter comes as well.'
People we spoke with told us they liked the staff and felt they were well looked after. They said, "The staff are very pleasant" and "The carers are very good."
People who used the service were satisfied with the quality and quantity of food they received. Comments included, 'The food is fantastic, it's all home cooked', 'I can have a choice of meals, it's all nice', 'The cook makes sure we are all well fed' and 'We had a really nice tea last night.'
Relatives we spoke with were complementary and about the quality of care the service offered. Comments included, 'I know my mother is safe here and I trust the care staff' and 'We can go home safe in the knowledge she will be well looked after.'