16 June 2011
During a routine inspection
Throughout our visit to the home we heard staff asking people if they were ready to receive the care offered. People told us that they could refuse care or have it at a different time if they wanted to. The people that we spoke to in the home said that they were 'happy enough' and had 'no complaints' about the care they were receiving. Some people were not able to express an opinion about their care but appeared comfortable and relaxed. We spoke to two relatives who visit the home 'very regularly.' They told us they were 'very pleased' with the care their relative received.
We saw lunch being served during our visit to the home. People were offered a choice of home cooked food at the table. Care staff sat down next to people who needed assistance and gave them their full attention. One carer took plenty of time to encourage a person who found it difficult to eat with a well prepared pureed meal.
People told us that a doctor would visit them when required. The manager told us that people can access the services of chiropodists, dentists and opticians on a regular basis. Some people have received the support of physiotherapists or dieticians depending on their needs. People are accompanied to appointments either by their families or by members of staff.
People living at the home said that they felt safe with the staff who supported them. They told us that there was always 'someone to tell about worries.' We observed that people appeared relaxed and comfortable with the staff on duty. People who were not able to express an opinion were given time whilst care was being provided and we saw occasions when people were observed and checked by staff to ensure that they were comfortable.
All areas of the home were clean and fresh. We saw staff who wore aprons and gloves when providing care and removed them on leaving the person's room.
People spoke very positively about the staffing the home. One person told us that the registered nurses were 'very helpful if you need anything sorting out.' Another person told us about their favourite member of care staff. Staff appeared confident in their roles. We observed people being moved using a hoist for example. The two staff members were proficient in the use of the apparatus but also reassured the person and talked to them throughout the whole process.