5 September 2012
During a themed inspection looking at Dignity and Nutrition
The inspection team was led by a CQC inspector joined by an Expert by Experience (people who have experience of using services and who can provide that perspective).
We used the Short Observational Framework for Inspection (SOFI). SOFI is a specific way of observing care to help us understand the experience of people who could not talk with us.
The team manager told us that the home was in the process of closing and that they were working with a team of social workers to find appropriate placements for people in other homes. We saw that the provider had consulted with relatives and were involving advocates for people who were assessed as not having capacity to make decisions in this area.
People told us that they liked living at the home and they liked the staff. One person said 'Everybody's lovely, they look after us very well'. Staff had a good knowledge of supporting people living with dementia. One staff member told us 'It is important not to take what people say to us personally and to understand that it is important to give people space when they are upset. We often ask another carer to take over if we are having difficulties.'
We observed the lunchtime meal and saw that people were supported to eat and drink appropriately. People told us that they liked the food at the home. One person said 'My favourite is the roast, roast potatoes and roast beef.' Staff we spoke with said that if people refused food or drink this was accepted at the time, then offered further food and drink later on. Staff told us that snacks such as sandwiches and cakes were available for people throughout the day.
Staff told us they were well supported by the management of the home. We saw that staff received regular training to enable them to support people effectively. We saw that people's views and preferences in relation to their care were recorded in their records. Staff we spoke with were aware of choices people had made with regards to their care.
The home had clear policies and procedures for both safeguarding and whistle blowing.
Staff we spoke with were aware of these policies and how to access them. They told us they felt confident about raising concerns with the management of the home and that they would be dealt with appropriately.