19 November 2010
During a routine inspection
Service users told us that they felt safe at the home and that staff were 'kind and caring'. They felt that the food was usually 'excellent' or 'lovely' and that they were given plenty to eat at times that suited them. They said that the hot meals were always appropriately hot when served. They said that they were able to make suggestions for the menus and that the menu was generally varied. Two service users commented that it was 'not easy though to please everyone all of the time', but that they had no complaints as they food was 'wholesome' and 'generally what we like'.
One service user said that she did not like the food, but also said that she was rarely ever hungry or thirsty. The service user had not participated in the residents' meeting in order to get her views across, but had been visited by the cook to see if her needs could be accommodated.
Service users said that their rooms were warm and comfortable and that they felt safe during the day and also at night. They said there was always plenty of staff around. They also said that they were able to go to their room for privacy when they wished and that staff left them alone for a reasonable time when they did not want to be disturbed. Staff seemed 'patient enough' with them 'most of the time'.
Service users said that they were now able to eat their meals in their rooms if they did not fee like eating in the dining room.
Service users said that they were given regular baths or showers and helped to maintain personal hygiene where this was needed. Otherwise, staff respected their privacy and dignity and they were able to attend to their own personal hygiene on their own if they were able.
Service users said that the home provided some activities for them to participate in each week and they were able to join weekly outings if they wished. Activities were discussed at the residents' meetings which took place every 2 months, and new activities had been added including baking and handicrafts. Service users said that they felt better for now having regular activities and occupational therapy.
Service users said that they felt the staff were supported well by the management and that there was a good working atmosphere at the home. Most of the service users we spoke to knew who their key worker was and had regular reviews of their care plans, where they, their family and/or friends were asked to contribute. They were asked to sign care plans in order to demonstrate that they had contributed and approved of the care that was to be provided.
One service user told us that she did not have a care plan that she was aware of and felt that she had not agreed to come to live in the home. She said that no one 'professional' had talked to her about her being at the home.
One resident who had recently arrived at the home for a trial visit said that the home was warm and clean 'in every possible respect' and this was very important to him. This resident indicated that he planned to stay at the home now permanently.