10 February 2021
During an inspection looking at part of the service
We found the following examples of good practice.
The home had designated entrance with posters displayed which explained the safety procedures in place. On arrival we were greeted by a staff member and had our temperature taken, we were asked to sanitise our hands and to wear a mask. We were shown to the registered managers office by the shortest and most direct route.
People continued to receive prompt medical attention when they became unwell and relationships with health professionals remained good. When people were admitted to the home, risk assessments were completed, and people self-isolated for 14 days. Social distancing was encouraged throughout the home. Where this was not achievable, staff were aware of the need for enhanced cleaning of frequently touched surfaces and people were supported to wash their hands regularly.
Written thank you letters from relatives demonstrated how grateful they were for the care their loved ones received during the pandemic. Comments included, “It is difficult to find the words to express my thanks for the care during the pandemic. I know we are still at risk but you accepted risk and carried on”, “We can’t thank you enough especially during these difficult times” and “Thank you for keeping mum safe and well and helping her to reach a full recovery”.
Daily activities continued to take place which were organised by the activity coordinator. They told us they had increased one to one activity provision during the pandemic to support social distancing and people had enjoyed this individual interaction.
We saw that relatives received correspondence from the registered manager who provided them with updates on their loved ones, any changes in the home and informed them of positive news and events within the home for example how the residents would be celebrating Christmas. We saw one relative had recently written to the staff thanking them for keeping them up to date with their mothers’ illness.
Staff wellbeing was considered, and the registered manager had various support mechanisms in place. This included those who had previously tested positive to Covid or suffered with anxiety during the pandemic. Examples of support included weekly phone calls to make sure they were coping well; wellbeing forms were completed to see if additional support was required such as change of shift patterns for those with childcare duties and regular breaks were encouraged where needed.