3 June 2014
During a routine inspection
Below is a summary of what we found. The summary is based on our observations during the inspection, discussions with people using the service, their relatives, the staff supporting them and looking at records.
If you wish to see the evidence supporting our summary please read the full report.
Is the service safe?
We found that there were systems in place to make sure that manager and staff learnt from events such as accidents and incidents and investigations.
The service was safe, clean and hygienic.
There was enough staff on duty who had the skills to care for people during their stay at Longdean Lodge. A member of the management team was available on call in case of emergencies.
CQC monitors the operation of the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards which applies to care homes. While no applications have needed to be submitted, proper policies and procedures were in place.
Is the service effective?
People's health and care needs were assessed and care plans were reflective of people's current needs. People told us they were happy with the care they received and felt their needs had been met. One person told us, 'Staff are polite and helpful and the food is wonderful'.
We found that the provider had ensured all staff had received adequate training to be able to meet the needs of the people living in the home. We saw good interactions between staff members and people, demonstrating staff knew people as individuals.
Is the service caring?
People were supported by kind and attentive staff. People spoken with were very positive about the staff. People used words like, 'Wonderful, Caring, Kind and Happy' when describing the staff.
We found evidence that people using the service completed an annual satisfaction survey. We saw that that if any areas of concern were raised these were immediately addressed.
Is the service responsive?
We found that people had clear assessments from a range of professional involved in their care package before they cane to stay at Longdean Lodge. People's preferences, interests, aspirations and diverse needs had been recorded. People had access to activities, and people were supported to maintain and increase their independence by staff members.
Is the service well-led?
Staff told us they were supported by a good management team. They told us the manager and deputy manager were always approachable. People told us they felt confident that they could raise concerns with staff.
During the inspection two people told us about minor concerns they had which had been addressed immediately by the staff team within the home. All people who received a service at Longdean Lodge were only there for a short period of time. We were shown copies of exit questionnaires which everyone is asked to complete to ensure there is regular feedback on the service provided.