This inspection took place on 04 June 2015 and was unannounced. At our last inspection in August 2014 we found the provider was meeting the regulations we inspected.
The Lodge is registered to provide care for up to 15 people with mental health and physical disabilities.
There was a registered manager in place. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service. Like registered providers, they are ‘registered persons’. Registered persons have legal responsibility for meeting the requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated Regulations about how the service is run.
People were not wholly protected from the risks of unsafe or inappropriate care and support as we saw care records were not always up to date.
Staffs demonstrated a good understanding of the requirements of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, and were aware of the steps to take should someone who used the service need to be deprived of their liberty for their own safety. The service had policies and procedures in place for staff to follow to report any abuse they may witness or become aware of. Staff also received training on how to keep people safe.
There was appropriate arrangements were in place in relation to the obtaining, recording and administration of medicines.
People received individualised care that met their needs. People were supported to attend health and medical appointments, and the staff sought medical assistance when people were unwell.
People and relatives told us they were satisfied with the care and support provided at the service.
Staff received appropriate training, professional development, supervision and appraisal to support them in delivering care and other services.
The registered manager had regular contact with people using the service and their representatives. They welcomed suggestions on how they could develop the services and make improvements.
There were processes to ensure people were able to contribute to discussions about how they preferred to be cared for and supported. People were supported by attentive and patient staff who understood the need to respect people's privacy and dignity. We saw staff interactions with people using the service were sensitive and respectful.
People who used the service appeared at ease in their surroundings and spoke freely about their experiences.
We found one breach of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014. You can see what action we have told the provider to take at the back of this report.