We carried out a review of the data available to us about The Laurels Care Home on 6 July 2023. We have not found evidence that we need to carry out an inspection or reassess our rating at this stage.
This could change at any time if we receive new information. We will continue to monitor data about this service.
If you have concerns about The Laurels Care Home, you can give feedback on this service.
We found the following examples of good practice.
The home looked and smelled clean, and was well ventilated and uncluttered, while still maintaining a homely feel. Staff were seen to be wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriately and being careful to maintain social distance, where possible. This helped to minimise the risk of infection. There was PPE and hand sanitising facilities at strategic points throughout the home and we saw staff sanitised their hands frequently.
There was an activities coordinator who helped to help minimise the effects of social isolation by organising activities as well as providing one to one support to people in their rooms. The activities coordinator also helped people to stay in touch with their family and friends by phone and on-line face to face chats. There were areas of the home which were designated to meet the needs of people who would not benefit from isolating in their rooms for long periods.
The registered manager and their team had good knowledge of current guidance. They ensured dissemination of information to staff, liaised with relevant agencies, and maintained good communication with people and their families. The service learned lessons and responded positively to address shortfalls and improve the service. Best practice feedback had recently been provided by a visiting infection control nurse and, as a result, changes had been implemented quickly and effectively.
The Laurels is a ‘care home.’ People in care homes receive accommodation and nursing or personal care as a single package under one contractual agreement. CQC regulates both the premises and the care provided, and both were looked at during this inspection.
The Laurels provides accommodation for up to 50 people. The home consists of two separate units. The service provides accommodation for people who require personal care, with nursing. The home is located in Norton, a village north of Doncaster. At the time of our inspection there were 49 people using the service.
At the time of our inspection the service had a registered manager. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service. Like registered providers, they are ‘registered persons.’ Registered persons have legal responsibility for meeting the requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated Regulations about how the service is run.
People were safeguarded against the risk of abuse. Staff confirmed they had received training in the subject and knew what action to take if they suspected abuse.
Risks associated with people’s care were identified and managed appropriately. Risk assessments were in place to guide staff in ensuring risks were minimised.
We observed staff interacting with people and found there were enough staff available to meet people's needs. The registered provider followed robust recruitment procedures which ensured staff were recruited in a safe way.
People’s medicines were managed safely and people received their medicines as prescribed.
Staff had the skills and knowledge to deliver effective care. People were supported to maintain a healthy, balanced diet which met their needs and preferences. People had access to healthcare professionals and their advice was followed.
People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice. The service was compliant with the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
During our inspection we found staff interacted positively with people who used the service. Staff were kind and caring in their manner, knew people well and provided a homely atmosphere.
We looked at care records belonging to people who used the service and found evidence that staff were responsive to people’s needs.
Social activities and stimulation was available throughout the day of the inspection. This was varied to meet people’s preferences, choices and needs. We observed people enjoyed participating.
The registered provider had a complaints procedure and people we spoke with felt able to raise concerns if they needed to. Complaints received had been followed up effectively and used to develop the service.
The registered provider had systems in place to monitor the quality of the service. Residents and relative’s meetings took place and people felt they had a voice.
Further information is in the detailed findings below.