During an assessment under our new approach
Date of Assessment: 28 May to 4 June. We carried out this assessment because a significant period had passed since the service was last inspected.
Terry Yorath House is a residential care home providing support to older adults, younger adults, people with a physical disability, learning disability and autism. People in care homes receive accommodation and nursing or personal care as single package under one contractual agreement. The Care Quality Commission regulates both the premises, and the care provided, and both were looked at during this inspection. At the time of inspection there was 11 people living at the service.
At the time of the assessment, the service was not used by anyone with a primary learning disability or an autistic person. However, we assessed the care provision under Right Support, Right Care, Right Culture, as it is registered as a specialist service for this population group.
People’s needs were assessed using recognised tools across key areas, including nutrition, hydration, weight management, and skin integrity. Care and support plans were person-centred, reflecting individuals’ specific clinical needs, and people were actively involved in their development. The provider monitored outcomes effectively, ensuring timely referrals and input from external professionals such as GPs and district nursing teams.
The provider promoted a positive and transparent safety culture, where incidents were appropriately reported, reviewed and used as learning opportunities. Risk reduction measures, such as the use of sensor mats, were implemented to support people’s safety. Staff worked effectively with healthcare professionals to promote safe, coordinated care and ensure smooth transitions between services. Safeguarding procedures were understood, and staff demonstrated an ability to support people safely. However, some incidents had not been reported for management review by staff and therefore full oversight was not completed. No harm had been caused, and the provider took immediate action to improve reporting systems.
Staffing levels were appropriate to meet people’s needs, and people were supported to maintain their independence. Infection prevention and control measures were well managed, and the environment was clean. The service required some decoration and maintenance work both internally and externally, plans were in place for this.
We identified some recording issues with PRN (as and when required) medication and some medication stock. There had been no impact on people and issues were addressed promptly, by the registered manager.
The service used an electronic care system that contained key information about people’s care needs.
People were treated with kindness, empathy and respect. Staff were observed providing supportive care that maintained people’s dignity, including offering discreet personal care and ensuring people were clean and comfortable. Relatives were welcomed and supported during visits. People were encouraged to make choices and remain as independent as possible, moving freely around the home with support available when required.
Staff told us they felt confident to raise concerns, and the provider promoted an inclusive workforce that reflected a range of backgrounds and experiences. The management team were experienced, committed and focused on meeting people’s needs.