The inspection was carried out by two adult social care inspectors. On the day of our inspection there were 46 people living in the home. As part of this inspection we spoke with eight people who use the service, one relative, the registered manager, and seven care staff. We looked at records relating to the management of the home and ten people's care records. During the inspection evidence was gathered to answer five key questions; is the service safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led?Below is a summary of what we found. The summary describes what people using the service, their relatives and the staff told us, what we observed and the records we looked at.
Is the service safe?
We found the service was safe. People told us they felt safe. One person said, 'Yes I am definitely safe.'
People received safe and effective care. People's needs were assessed and care plans reflected their identified needs. We saw that where risks were identified these had been assessed and appropriate action taken. For example, where people were at risk of pressure damage, pressure relieving equipment was in place.
The home had appropriate systems in place to manage medicines. Care workers told us that they had been trained in administering medicines and their competency had been assessed. We observed staff administering medicines. Staff supported people to take their medication in the prescribed way. There was accurate recording of the administration of medicines. All medication was stored in a safe manner.
The provider understood their responsibilities under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). The manager was aware of the recent Supreme Court judgement in relation to the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards and would take appropriate action if a person required a DoLS.
Is the service effective?
We found the service was effective. People were supported in a dignified and respectful manner. We saw that care records were person centred and written with the involvement of the person and their families.
People were supported to maintain their independence. We observed people being encouraged to carry out activities. For example, we saw one person was given responsibility for feeding the fish. Another person told us they had enjoyed planting flowers in the garden.
Care staff were supported through supervision and appraisals. Care staff told us they had access to training and felt well supported by both the manager and the care staff team.
Is the service caring?
People told us they felt well cared for. One person told us, 'Staff are very caring. Their patience is endless.' People were supported by caring and attentive staff. We saw care workers encouraging people with patience and understanding. People were not rushed and were able to do things at their own pace.
People were supported in a timely manner, with dignity and respect. We observed one person being verbally aggressive towards care staff. Care staff responded in a positive way, engaging the person in conversation about what they would like for breakfast. When the care staff moved away the person was smiling and chatting.
Is the service responsive?
The service was responsive to people's needs. People's care plans reflected their needs and preferences.
Where changes in people's needs were identified appropriate support from health professionals was sought and changes to care needs met. For example one person had been identified as being at high risk of falls. Referrals had been made to the care home support service and recommendations had been implemented to reduce the risk.
Is the service well-led?
The service was well-led. The provider had systems in place to monitor the quality of the service. These included a range of clinical and health and safety audits, monitoring of peoples feedback and reviews of all accidents, incidents and complaints.
A recent monthly monitoring visit and review had identified that mealtimes were not a positive experience for people. We saw changes had been made to address the concerns. On the day of our visit people were supported in a calm atmosphere.
Complaints were responded to in line with the provider's complaints policy and to the satisfaction of the person raising the concern.