Archived: Forest View Care Home

Below is a summary of what we found. The summary is based on our observations during the inspection, speaking with people using the service, the staff supporting them and from looking at records.

Is the service safe?

People who used the service were protected from the risk of abuse, because the provider had taken reasonable steps to identify the possibility of abuse and prevent abuse from happening. People we spoke with told us they felt safe living at the home. One person told us "I do feel safe here. I would speak to the boss if not happy." Staff had undertaken training in areas that promoted people's safety including training about safeguarding vulnerable adults. Risk assessments had been carried out to help reduce the risks people faced.

The Care Quality Commission monitors the operation of the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards which applies to care homes. While no applications have needed to be submitted, proper policies and procedures were in place. Relevant staff have been trained to understand when an application should be made, and how to submit one.

Is the service effective?

People's needs were assessed and care was planned and delivered in line with their individual care plan. We spoke with people who used the service. They told us they were happy with the care and support provided. One relative told us 'they [staff] talk to people here like human beings. They are given the respect they are due.' Staff we spoke with had a good understanding of the individual needs of people.

Is the service caring?

People's views and experiences were taking into account and this informed how their care was delivered. People told us that they were involved and consulted about decisions affecting their care and treatment. One relative told us 'staff asked my husband questions before he moved in.' People we spoke with told us they were happy with the care they received.

Is the service responsive?

People's needs were assessed and support was delivered to meet their individual needs. We looked at six care files. These provided information about people's needs. Care plans gave guidance for staff about how they should meet people's needs. Daily notes showed that people were taking part in activities and were being supported to access their local community.

Is the service well-led?

The service had a registered manager in place and a clear management structure. Staff we spoke with said they found management staff to be approachable. Clear records were maintained which were stored securely. Quality assurance and monitoring processes were in place. These included seeking the views of people who used the service. There were effective recruitment and selection processes in place.

We were told care plans were reviewed every three months and that family and other professionals would be invited to attend. One relative we spoke to said they were 'very involved' in the assessment and care planning for their relative

The home followed the 'information sharing guide 2008' - a government circular which outlined good practice in relation to information sharing. The manager said they always ensured the information given was necessary, proportionate, relevant, accurate, timely and secure.

People's bedrooms were personalised to suit taste and some people had furnished their rooms with personal items and photographs.

People told us that they liked living in the home. One person said 'I enjoyed eating meals in the garden this year. They keep it nice.'

The manager told us that all staff complete common induction which is linked to national vocation qualifications (NVQ's) during their first month of employment.

We saw that care records were accurate and up to date and were held securely in a locked office and only designated staff had access to the keys.