Archived: Beech Lodge Residential Home

People were very complimentary about the support and care they received. Comments included, 'the staff are lovely, we all get on really well.' And 'It's only a small home, so it's like a family atmosphere, my mum is very happy here.'

People's preferences regarding meals were taken into account; this was observed on the day of this visit when one person was provided with an alternative to the two lunch time options, to suit their preference.

The compliance actions left at the last visit have now been addressed, this included information in records about one person's level of understanding in making day to day decisions and the support they needed to make these decisions. Records were also in place to demonstrate that staff were receiving formal supervision sessions; this ensured staff were monitored and supported in their role. The correct practices were in place to ensure medication requiring cold storage was maintained at a suitable temperature. The quality monitoring systems had improved to ensure effective systems were in place to monitor and improve the support and services provided.

We asked people if staff treated them with respect and dignity. People confirmed staff did. One person told us, 'I get on really well with all the staff, they are always polite to me but friendly as well.' Another person said, 'I haven't been here very long but the staff seem very good, always respectful and seem happy to help me when I need them.'

Visitors spoken with praised the staff team. Comments included, 'they are excellent, I can't fault them at all, very caring.'

People were happy with the quality of the meals provided. However three people spoken with said that they would like more variety in the meal choices available.

Although not everyone chose to participate in activities, those that did confirmed they enjoyed the activities provided but said they would welcome more.

Staff were provided with ongoing training to ensure they were kept up to date with current practice. However staff were not provided with supervision sessions. Supervisions are an opportunity for the manager and a staff member to meet on a one to one basis or observe the delivery of care. Supervisions can be used to talk about work practices, training needs, care and welfare of people using the service and other issues which impact on their role.