A person using the service said that their impression on moving into Church Walk House was that it was 'lively and welcoming'. Even if people had not been involved in the decision to choose Church Walk House they agreed that 'it had been a good choice'. A visiting health care professional told us that Church Walk House was a 'nice home'.People disagreed on whether they were involved in their care or whether they felt that they were listened to.
'I have personal views, they acknowledge these. They respect my point of view'.
'No, I am not listened to'.
When asked about the activities provided and whether they provided a stimulating environment one person told us 'Not really. I watch TV or go to my room'. Although people were unaware of their care or support plan they were generally satisfied with the care received. They told us 'I realised I was happy. They were so thoughtful' and 'I'm happy here'. People using the service told us that support is given, when needed, so that they can access health care services within the community.
People confirmed that the menu offered alternatives and that they were satisfied with the meals served in the home. They told us
'The quality is good, I'm surprised at the care they put into it'.
'There is a lot of variety on the menu. The lamb was beautiful'.
'The food is OK but not the suppers. The sandwiches are boring and the bread is of a poor quality'. An African Caribbean person using the service said that the food is 'very European'.
Most people told us that they felt safe living in the home and comfortable with the people supporting them. However, comments were made about the behaviour of other people who used the service and these were attributed to other people having Alzheimer's. When asked who they could speak to if they had any concerns or worries we were told 'I can talk with anyone'. They were satisfied with the arrangements for managing their medication and said 'They come on time and don't forget'. People told us that they were pleased with their surroundings and said that their rooms were 'very nice' but 'it's very small' or 'It's a large room. It used to be a double'. When asked about the cleanliness they told us that the standard was good and that 'they clean rooms and change bedding on a regular basis'.
When asked about staffing levels and how carers carried out their duties some people were satisfied and some were not. They told us
'They have a good sense of humour. They make me smile inside' or 'Most of them are nice and understanding' or 'There are not enough staff in the morning when I need help to get out of bed. They are so busy, you don't ring the bell'.
However, they did agree that if they rang the call bell for assistance the response time was usually good although one person told us 'Some tell me off for a wet pad'. When commenting on the competence of the staff team they told us 'They know what they are doing' or 'I'm dressed in the morning by young chaps who have no idea about dressing a woman'.
Overall people who use the service were satisfied with the service received and with the quality of care. They knew who they would speak to if they had any concerns and were aware of their right to complain if they were not happy about the service provided. They were confident that their concerns would be listened to. They told us 'I have nothing to complain about' or 'If I had a complaint I would take it to the office'.