5, 10 June 2014
During a routine inspection
' Is the service safe?
' Is the service effective?
' Is the service caring?
' Is the service responsive?
' Is the service well led?
This is a summary of what we found-
Is the service safe?
We saw people had been cared for in a safe, clean environment. Risks had been assessed and managed. There were enough staff on duty and contingency plans were in place for emergencies. People had been provided with some of the essential information emergency services would need in the event of accidents or other incidents, so they could carry this with them when using community facilities independently. Other information that would be required in the event of an unplanned admission of a person to hospital was also available for staff to use and the home had a missing person procedure in place. Staff had received the essential training they would need to keep people safe. Medicines were safely managed.
Staff personnel records contained all the information required by the Health and Social Care Act. CQC monitors the operation of the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards which applies to care homes. While no applications have been submitted procedures were in place.
Is the service effective?
People told us they were happy with the care that had been delivered. It was clear from our observations and from speaking with staff that they had a good understanding of the people's care and support needs and that they knew them well. One person told us "I like all the staff I have now." We saw that people were complimentary about the home in written surveys and comments included the following; "The staff enable me to go places, having a house, food and plenty of lovely things." People's independence was promoted and they were supported to make decisions about their futures.
Is the service caring?
People were supported by warm, good humoured and friendly staff. People were supported and encouraged to speak for themselves and given time and space to achieve this. In one survey a family member had written, "Really nice caring staff make X a real home."
Is the service responsive?
People's needs had been assessed and care was planned in a way that took account of people's wishes and what worked best for them. People had access to activities that were important to them and had been supported to maintain relationships with their friends and relatives.
Is the service well led?
The manager spoke highly of the support she received. Staff demonstrated in the relationships with people an understanding of the ethos of the home and promoted people's rights and independence. We saw customer satisfaction surveys had been completed and there were quality assurance processes in place.