Archived: Hardwick Dene

Below is a summary of what we found. If you wish to see the evidence that supports our summary please read the full report.

Is the service safe?

People who lived at Hardwick Dene told us they were well looked after and felt safe. Relatives we spoke with had no concerns about safeguarding. The provider had a safeguarding policy and procedure in place and staff had received training in the safeguarding of vulnerable adults. People's care records showed that care and treatment was planned in a way that was intended to ensure people's safety and welfare. One person told us, "I feel quite safe and have no concerns."

Is the service effective?

We observed working practice during the day. Care was provided at a time when people required it. Team working was strong and we saw there were effective working relationships with a range of health care professionals. One relative told us, "Staff communicate very well and I am able to discuss any concerns or issues."

Is the service caring?

We saw that there was a good rapport between staff and people who used the service. Staff spent time with people and understood their needs. We observed staff treating people compassionately when they became distressed or confused. One person told us, "Everyone is very kind."

Is the service responsive?

We observed that staff responded quickly and appropriately to situations that occurred. Staff were proactive in asking people what they needed throughout the day. People who lived at Hardwick Dene and their relatives and friends spoke favourably about the care provided. One relative commented, "The staff are friendly and accessible. They are very caring."

Is the service well led?

There were systems in place to manage and monitor the service. We found that staff were well supported and enjoyed their work. Records were easy to access and there was evidence that information was used to make improvements when required. This ensured that people received a good quality service.

Written evidence submitted to us since this inspection showed that the provider had taken sufficient action to address our concerns and that cleaning schedules were in place to ensure that people were being cared for in a clean and hygienic environment. The provider must now ensure that these improvements are sustained in the long term.

Staff told us they were pleased to be working at Hardwick Dene. One senior member of staff said, 'We've really moved things on. It's a good staff group now.' Another staff member told us, 'This is one of the best care homes I've worked in.'

At the time of our inspection, the home was introducing a different format for people's care plans. The new format was personalised and gave staff details about the care and support each person wanted to meet their individual needs. Any potential risks to the person were assessed and minimised and people's health was monitored by a range of healthcare professionals.

The provider had a complaints procedure in place and people knew who they could talk to if they had any concerns. However, they said they had nothing to complain about. Staff received a range of training so that they were equipped to do their job well. People said the staff were very good. One person told us, 'I cannot find fault with the staff. They're all very nice and kind, pleasant and friendly.'

However, the home was not clean and hygienic enough in all areas to ensure that people were protected from the risks of infection.