22 May 2012
During a routine inspection
One of the tools used was the Short Observational Framework for Inspection (SOFI). SOFI is a specific way of observing care to help us understand the experience of people who could not talk with us.
We were able to talk to two people using the service during our visit to Pear Tree Lodge. Both people we spoke with were very positive about the care or treatment they received at the home. People told us that they were able to make their own decisions, but at times had to compromise with staff and other people using the service. Comments from one person included, "I can get up and go to bed when I want to". We observed that staff were treating people with respect and interacted positively with people using the service. Staff were knowledgeable about the different forms of communication used by people using the service and interpreted their wishes and requests to their satisfaction.
People using the service told us that they were involved in care planning processes and had regular opportunities to contribute to their person centred plan, comments included, "I meet with my key worker regularly and discuss my new folder". The provider has introduced a new care planning format.
We observed staff treating people using the service with respect and supported them safely and appropriately to mobilise around the home. We asked people using the service if they felt safe at Pear Tree Lodge, both people using the service told us, that staff looked after them well and that they felt safe and protected at Pear Tree Lodge.
We observed staff interacting with people using the service; it was evident that staff were knowledgeable in supporting an aging group of people with learning disabilities.
We asked people using the service if they were able to contribute to the quality of care provided; one person told us that they have "regular residents meetings". We asked people if they were given annual questionnaires, people using the service told us "yes". The provider carried out service users' surveys bi-annually.