We considered our inspection findings to answer questions we always ask: Is the service caring? Is the service responsive? Is the service safe? Is the service effective? Is the service well led? Below is a summary of what we found. The summary is based on our observations during the inspection, speaking with people using the service and the staff supporting them and from looking at records.
If you want to see the evidence supporting our summary please read the full report.
Is the service safe?
People using the service told us they felt safe. We saw from recent satisfaction surveys the relatives of people using the service thought people were well cared for. One relative had noted, 'Hemmet House provides a safe home environment.' Another stated, 'The residents all appear well cared for and come across very happy at Hemmet House.'
Senior staff assessed potential risks to people's safety, health and welfare both within the home and in the community. There was appropriate guidance for staff on how to prevent or minimise these risks, which meant people were protected from the risk of harm when they received care and support. There were enough staff to meet the needs of people using the service.
People were cared for in an environment that was kept clean and hygienic. Staff knew how to maintain good standards of cleanliness and personal hygiene to reduce the risk of cross infection. The home was free from clutter and obstacles which meant people were able to move freely around the home.
CQC monitors the operation of the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards which applies to care homes. The home had proper policies and procedures in relation to the Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards although no applications had needed to be submitted. Relevant staff had been trained to understand when an application should be made and in how to submit one. This meant people would be safeguarded as required.
Is the service effective?
Staff encouraged and supported people to make choices and decisions about how they lived their lives. People's wishes were respected and consent was sought before staff carried out any care and support. This meant people did not receive care or support they did not want or ask for.
People using the service and their relatives were involved in planning their care and support. People's specific needs were taken into account and there was guidance and instructions for staff on how these needs should be met. People's care plans were reviewed regularly and any changes to these were updated promptly. This meant staff had up to date, accurate information about the care and support people needed.
Is the service caring?
People were supported by kind and caring staff. We observed staff were patient and gave positive encouragement when supporting people. These interactions were warm, kind and respectful. People were clearly comfortable with the staff that supported them.
A relative had commented in the recent satisfaction surveys, 'Hemmet House provides the residents with a very comfortable, caring and happy place to live.'
Is the service responsive?
Staff were responsive to any changes and deterioration in people's general health and well-being. They took appropriate action to ensure relevant healthcare professionals were kept informed about any changes so that people got the appropriate medical care and attention they needed.
People told us they were comfortable speaking to staff if they had any issues or concerns. One of the people using the service had commented in the recent satisfaction survey, 'I feel complaints I make are dealt with quickly.' A relative had noted, 'I appreciate being able to approach staff with any concerns.'
Is the service well-led?
The service used the views and experiences of people using the service, their relatives and staff to assess and monitor the quality of service provided. They sought people's ideas and suggestions for improvements and made changes that people wanted or needed. They took appropriate action to address any issues or concerns about service quality.
Senior staff demonstrated a good understanding and awareness of how regular audits and checks improved the service that people experienced.