Archived: Wood Court

At our inspection of the service on 23 January 2014 we found some improvements. The service had been revisited by the Environment Health Officer on 27 November 2013 and they had issued a report stating that the premises had been thoroughly cleaned and safe systems were in place.

We saw that a cleaning schedule had been placed in the kitchen area. A digital probe thermometer used to check the temperature of food had been purchased to check temperature levels were safe before reheating food. Cover arrangements were in place for unexpected sickness or absence of the cleaner. Although some actions identified on the action plan had been met, we noted that there were areas where improvements were still required.

There were effective systems in place to assess, plan, and deliver care to meet people's individual needs, and ensure their welfare and safety.

There were sufficient numbers of suitably qualified, skilled and experienced staff to carry out the regulated activity. People told us that they "got to know the staff well" and that there was consistency of care. There was an induction programme for all new staff and on-going training and development.

People's records were kept electronically and in paper form, meaning they were accessible to residents and people involved in their care. Records were updated in a timely manner and were stored, retained and disposed of appropriately.

People were not always protected against identifiable risks of acquiring an infection by the maintenance of appropriate standards of cleanliness and hygiene in relation to the premises.

Care and support plans were in place and the plan was regularly reviewed. Each person's risks were assessed and monitored. People were able to see a doctor and other health professionals when needed. People's needs were assessed and care was planned and delivered to meet them and to ensure people's safety and welfare.

People said they felt safe in the home and staff understood the safeguarding policy and procedure. Staff were able to explain the different types of abuse and knew to inform the manager or local safeguarding team if they had concerns. The provider had taken steps to identify the possibility of abuse and prevent it from happening.

Staff felt they got good support from managers including regular, well-documented supervision which included training needs and goal-setting. Staff had undertaken appropriate training which was monitored by the managers. This support and professional development enabled staff to deliver good care to people living in the home.