Archived: Whiteoaks Rest Home

We saw that the home was clean and well maintained. Care was provided over two floors with single and double occupancy rooms available. There was a lift for access to the first floor rooms and all rooms were en suite.

People were able to personalise their rooms with their own possessions and could access their rooms whenever they chose. We saw that there were several communal areas available for people to use including a large lounge area, gardens, a conservatory area and an area which was being prepared as a library. Few people chose to remain in their rooms throughout the day, as the communal lounge area was the hub of activity during the day.

The dining area provided a comfortable environment at mealtimes. We saw that a varied menu was available for people and this catered for special dietary needs. People told us that the food was very nice and that they were given a choice at every meal time.

Records showed that care was planned and delivered in line with people's needs.

We saw that staff treated people in a kind and gentle manner respecting their dignity at all times.

On the day of our visit a hairdresser was visiting. We saw that people had the opportunity to participate in daily and monthly activities arranged in the home.

Care plans held information on all aspects of a person's care needs. We saw some examples of clear guidance to staff on how to support people with specific needs.

The relative we spoke to commented that their family member was well looked after.

Staff were praised by people using the service and their relatives. One person told us, "staff are always willing to listen." Another said, "I feel I can always ask questions if I am unsure. Nothing is too much trouble."

People we spoke with said they felt safe in the home and said they were confident that staff would respond appropriately to any concerns they raised. People told us the manager regularly asked them how things were and took prompt action to resolve any

concerns.

People told us that one of the staff or one of the managers take them to hospital appointments if their family members are unable to so they do not miss out.

People told us that they felt involved in the decision making in the home.