Little Oldway

We found the following examples of good practice.

The provider ensured current government guidelines in relation to COVID-19 were being followed by staff and visitors to reduce the risk of infection to people living at the service.

Prior to the inspection we received concerns in relation to the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE). During the inspection we observed staff wearing appropriate PPE when supporting people and staff understood the requirement to wear PPE and had been trained on how to use it. People and their relatives confirmed staff always wore PPE correctly.

Comprehensive checks were in place for visitors to the service which included lateral flow testing and screening for symptoms of or exposure to COVID-19.

Staff and people using the service all undertook a regular programme of testing to keep everyone safe and free from infection.

There were sufficient staff employed in the service to meet people's needs. The provider had systems in place to ensure non-exempt staff and visiting professionals were vaccinated against COVID-19.

People’s experience of using this service:

• People had their needs met by staff who knew them well and treated them with dignity and respect.

• Some people and staff fed back that at times staff were very busy, however, people’s basic needs were being met. We recommended that staffing levels were reviewed.

• There was activity provision in the home, two people fed back they would like to get out of the home more. We made a recommendation the home review activity provision with staff and people’s involvement.

• Staff were caring and appropriately affectionate, we saw gentle and kind interactions with a person receiving end of life care.

• The provider had made some recent improvements to the environment and had plans to continue a programme of modernisation.

• People were offered a range of healthy and nutritious foods. Menu choices were displayed in an easy read format. People enjoyed the food and the mealtime was calm with people socialising in the dining area.

• Staff knew what risks people faced and how to support them to manage health conditions. Timely referrals were made to health and social care professionals. We received positive feedback from agencies working with the home.

• People were supported to have choice and control in their lives and the service was acting within the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

• People’s needs and associated risks were assessed and reviewed, with clear instruction for staff on how to support people.

• Staff were supported through training and supervisions. Checks were completed at the recruitment stage to verify if staff were appropriate to work with people in a care setting.

Rating at last inspection: The home was rated Good at its last inspection; the report was published on 01 September 2016.

Why we inspected: This was a planned inspection based on the previous rating. We had no concerns before we inspected this home.

Follow up: We will continue to support the home with ongoing monitoring and continue with our inspection schedule. If we receive information of concern we may inspect sooner.