5 November 2013
During a routine inspection
We observed that staff on duty communicated with people respectfully. Staff spent time with them and engaged them in conversation and activities. One relative we spoke to told us "I have a lot of faith in them. They are all so nice and they have done so much with my relative'.
The care plans we reviewed contained risk assessments for the person that included fire evacuation, activities, behaviour, harm to others and harm from others. We saw that these had been regularly reviewed and were up to date.
The design and layout ensured that people who used the service could move around easily and there was adequate space for participating in activities, eating and socialising or finding a quiet space including two lounges, dining area, kitchen and garden. We saw that the location was well decorated throughout.
We saw that the service had a policy on the Mental Capacity Act 2005 that included Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. These aim to make sure that people in care homes and hospitals are looked after in a way that does not inappropriately restrict their freedom. Staff we spoke with were able to describe their responsibilities in relation to this.
The atmosphere in the home was relaxed and we observed staff being caring and supportive in their approach to people. They appeared to know them well and clearly understood their individual needs and preferences. One person who used the service told us 'They are very nice here. I want to get out. They have helped me to do better'.
One relative we spoke with told us 'They are keen to hear what we think. We have always been very happy with everything they do and we believe our relative is too. They can do as much as they like; they go out every day because they like going out. They involve them in as much as they want to be involved in'.