The inspection was led by one inspector. Information we gathered during the inspection helped answer our five questions; Is the service caring? Is the service responsive? Is the service safe? Is the service effective? Is the service well led?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.
Dunblane House is the home of the registered provider and registered manager. They live as a family with up to four people with mental health problems. There were three service users living at Dunblane House when we inspected. They had lived together at Dunblane House for many years.
If you wish to see the evidence supporting our summary please read the full report.
Is the service safe?
People were treated with respect and dignity by the staff. People told us they felt safe. They told us they were receiving safe and appropriate care which was meeting their needs. They said the staff were good and kind.
The home had policies and procedures in relation to the Mental Capacity Act. People who lived at Dunblane House when we inspected, had the capacity to make decisions about their lives, given appropriate information. Staff were aware of the need to seek assistance if an individual's capacity changed. Staff were aware of Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards although no applications had needed to be submitted. Relevant staff had been trained to understand when an application should be made, and in how to submit one. This meant that people would be safeguarded as required.
The service was safe, clean and hygienic. Service contracts were in place. Maintenance records we looked at showed that regular safety checks were carried out. Any repairs were completed quickly and safely. These measures ensured the home was maintained so people were safe. Systems were in place to make sure managers and staff learnt from events such as accidents and incidents, complaints, concerns, whistleblowing and investigations. This reduced the risks to people and helped the service to continually improve.
Is the service effective?
People's health and care needs were assessed and reviewed with them, and they were involved in developing their plans of care. This included the way each person's care was provided, their daily routines, health needs and their hopes and aspirations. We saw that care plans were up to date and reflected people's current individual, dietary, cultural and religious needs.
People confirmed and records showed that they were able to see people in private and that friends and relatives could visit whenever they wished. People's needs were taken into account with the layout of the home enabling people to move around freely and safely.
Is the service caring?
People were supported by kind, attentive and informed staff. We saw that staff showed patience and gave encouragement and guidance when supporting people. Good care practices were observed. People told us that they were happy at Dunblane House and they liked living there.
Care plans were person centred had been maintained, recording the care and support people were receiving. People's preferences, interests, aspirations and diverse needs had been recorded and care and support had been provided in accordance with people's wishes.
Is the service responsive?
We found a range of meaningful work, educational, social and leisure activities were organised to encourage skills and enjoyment. People said they enjoyed these, particularly the regular visits to the owner's caravan in Wales. We observed people getting ready to participate in these and they were enthusiastic about them. Relatives said how much they benefitted their family members. One relative said, 'There is always so much going on. Staff also make sure that they support our son so he is always involved in all our family occasions and celebrations.'
People knew how to make a complaint if they were unhappy. They said they had no complaints but indicated that if they had they would be dealt with quickly. We discussed how minor niggles were dealt with quickly and to the satisfaction of people who lived at Dunblane House. There was a complaints procedure and any complaints would be dealt with in a timely manner and action taken as necessary.
Is the service well-led?
The service had a quality assurance system in place and planned to further develop this. Records showed that any identified problems were addressed promptly. Staff reflected on whether any incidents could have been managed more effectively or if lessons could be learnt. As a result of these measures the quality of the service was continuously improving
Staff had a good understanding of their roles and responsibilities and of the ethos of the home. As a small staff team of four, staff worked closely together and with service users. As well as regular informal chats meetings were held regularly so everyone could discuss support needs and any changes in care or routines. Staff also received regular supervision to assist with their development. This helped to ensure that people received a good quality service at all times.