We inspected the service on 12 and 19 January 2018. At the time of our inspection, 24 older people were using the service.Larpool Lane is registered to provide residential care for up to 40 older people. Accommodation is provided in one adapted building over two floors. This service is a ‘care home’. People in care homes receive accommodation and nursing or personal care as single package under one contractual agreement. CQC regulates both the premises and the care provided, and both were looked at during this inspection.
At our last inspection we rated the service Good. At this inspection we found the evidence continued to support the rating of good. There was no evidence or information from our inspection and on-going monitoring that demonstrated serious risks or concerns. This inspection report is written in a shorter format because our overall rating of the service has not changed since our last inspection.
People told us they felt safe at the service. Staff had a good understanding of safeguarding and how to report any concerns they had. Risk assessments were in place where needed and these had been updated when changes occurred.
Servicing certificates were in place where required. Environmental checks had not always been effective in identifying areas of concern. Fire exit signs had not been put back in place following re-decoration and fire exit ramps were covered in moss and posed a potential risk of falls.
There was enough staff on duty who were able to respond to people’s needs in a timely manner. Medicines were managed and stored safely. Staff had received training and staff competencies in this area were being assessed.
Staff told us they felt supported. Records showed that although supervisions were taking place, these had not been completed as regularly as specified in the provider’s policy. The registered manager was taking action with regards to this.
Staff had received training to enable them to carry out their role effectively. Staff spoke positively about the training that was provided.
People told us they were satisfied with the food and drink on offer at the service. When people required additional support with meals, this was provided in a dignified way by staff.
People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.
Staff were familiar with peoples likes, dislikes and preferences with regards to care and support. Care plans contained person-centred information and people confirmed they had been consulted with regards to the support they required. The provision of activities was being reviewed to ensure activities on offer provided regular stimulation for people.
Quality assurance processes were place and completed on a regular basis. They had not always been effective in identifying areas where action was needed in relation to the environment.
People told us the registered manager was approachable and dealt with any concerns raised. The registered manager regularly sought feedback from people to monitor and improve the service.
Further information is in the detailed findings below.