Blackheath Brain Injury Rehabilitation Centre

This means we looked for evidence that the service involved people and treated them with compassion, kindness, dignity and respect.

At our last inspection, we rated this key question good. At this inspection, the rating has remained good. This meant people were supported and treated with dignity and respect; and involved as partners in their care.

Patients said staff treated them with respect. A patient described how a staff member stayed with them beyond the end of their shift to offer support during a period of physical discomfort. We observed staff engaging with patients in a professional and caring manner. Staff were approachable and responded to individual needs. Most patients reported no cultural or spiritual needs, though 1 confirmed access to a multi-faith room. Another patient had care tailored to their dietary needs. In another case, a patient described how staff supported them to visit their dog, which positively impacted their wellbeing. Interpreters were available to support communication where required.

At our previous inspection, we recommended that the provider ensure staff were aware of the 5 requirements of the Accessible Information Standard. At this inspection, we found this had improved. Staff IDs now displayed these 5 key requirements, and posters were clearly visible throughout the service.

Family members told us that the service offered a good range of activities that supported patient engagement and recovery.

The provider had a process in place to support carer involvement in patient care and treatment. This included a quarterly carers’ newsletter, a family summer barbecue, and invitations to carers for afternoon tea events.