Archived: The Newlands

There were eight people in residence when we undertook out inspection but seven had gone out on the day. We spoke with one person who used the service, one member of staff on duty and the registered manager.

During this inspection, we found that improvements had been made to ensure that people who used the service were protected against the risks associated with unsafe use and management of medicines. We saw that the provider had systems in place to manage and administer medication. We found that the provider had implemented new measures to ensure that medication errors were minimised. The provider had put measures in put in place to monitor quantities and stock levels.

A staff member told us, 'We've put the relevant risk assessments with the medication administration records (MAR). We find it easier to locate the file now, so you're not ploughing through to find information.' The registered manager said, 'I do a monthly medication audit now and the MAR have to be checked by the manager on duty to make sure that the support workers have signed the medication sheets for creams. They have to double check before the support worker goes home.'

A person who used the service told us 'I look after my own medication and staff help me to get cold water.'

We found people using the service were safe because the staff were given clear instructions, support and guidance. People told us they like living at The Newlands and the staff responded well to their needs. One person using the service said, 'I like the staff.' Another person told us, 'I'm happy.'

People told us they enjoyed the meals provided, they were offered choices and were supported to be independent. People had access to the local community and encouraged to play an active role in community events.

There were good systems in place to manage and administer medication. However, the need for improvements to some procedures was identified to ensure that people were protected from the risk of medication errors.

Staff we spoke with felt supported by the registered manager and confirmed they received regular one to one supervisions sessions to discuss their practice and performance and received training to meet the need of people who used the service.

One person told us, "I've lived here a long time and love it, I have my own things a room and can do what I like. The staff are lovely".

People had their capacity to consent to care and treatment assessed. The service was vigilant in acquiring professional consent to treatment where it was needed and acted in people's best interests.

People's routines were flexible and people were supported to live as full a life as possible. The provider supported people to be involved in the local community. They enjoyed going shopping, out for lunch and to day services. Some people chose to go to church regularly and were supported to do so.

People and their relatives said that they felt safe and free from the risk of abuse. Staff confirmed that they knew how to recognise and report any concerns.

People told us that they didn't have any complaints about the home, but that they knew who to go to if they did. They said they felt safe living at the The Newlands.