The Care Quality Commission

Archived: The Sylvester Care Centre

77-79 Reads Avenue, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY1 2DG (01253) 625777

Provided and run by:
Pro-Care Disperse Housing Ltd

All Inspections

26 November 2012

During a routine inspection

People told us they can express their views and were involved in decision making about their care. We were told they could decide how they lived their lives. 'I've been in some places staff think they're gods bossing everyone, but it's not like that here'. Another person told us 'Staff are very good. They never raise their voice and you can please yourself what you do. No rules here to spoil your life'.

People had their interests protected where they lacked capacity to give their consent because the provider acted in accordance with legal requirements to protect them.

People told us staff were 'good' and 'helpful'. People were vague about being involved in the planning of their care. One person said they could not remember discussing their care with staff, but that didn't matter as they had all the help they needed.

We found the service took a holistic approach to people's care as two people had their pets with them. One person had a dog staying on a temporary basis until proper arrangements were made for its long term care. It was popular with some of the people living in the home. We observed them interacting with it by talking and providing little treats.

People who use the service benefit from staff who have been subject to the necessary character checks to ensure they are fit, trustworthy, qualified and are physically and mentally fit to do their job.

1, 28 March 2012

During an inspection looking at part of the service

People told us they can express their views and are involved in decision making about their care. A person said the home held regular meetings where they were asked about the service they received and said, "We have monthly meetings and are asked what we think about living here. I think we say what we want and can ask for anything. I do what I want when I want to".

People said they had the freedom of choice to decide how they lived their lives. A person said they had lived at the home for many years and said, "I have friends here and outside. I visit my friend every day and help him. I come and go as I please and they will save me a meal if I want one". Another said, "I go to bed early and get up early. I like ten hours sleep. I don't eat breakfast but the food's good".

We were told the staff team provided flexible personal care and support and they felt well cared for. A person said, "I see my psychiatrist twice a year and my own doctor when I need but I am fit. Staff help me with my medicines. I forget to take them so I asked them to keep them for me". Another person said, "I've lived here many years, it's marvellous. I can't fault it, lovely staff, lovely food and I'm well cared for. Staff help me to take my medicines but I can take the spray for my breathing myself".

People we spoke with were happy for staff to store and administer their medicines.

People told us they were happy with their care and the staff were responsive to their needs.

8 November 2011

During an inspection in response to concerns

People wishing to self-administer medication were able to do so but, we found a lack of up-to-date written information about how safe self-administration was supported. People we spoke with were happy for care workers to look after and administer their medicines. One person told us they thought staff were 'Very good'.