Inspection on 10/09/09 for St Lawrence`s Lodge

What follows are excerpts from this inspection report. For more information read the full report on the next tab.

What the care home does well

The atmosphere of the home was warm and welcoming and people living in St Lawrence`s benefited from the support of a well-trained, enthusiastic and committed team of staff. People`s needs were re-assessed on a monthly basis and care plans were in place that reflected the individuals` identified needs. Such up to date information enabled staff to deliver support and meet those identified needs in the most appropriate ways. We were told that people really enjoyed the meals and were happy that there was enough food and choices made available to them. Staff told us they that they were happy with the way the home and service was managed and comments included, "We have a good owner and management team" and "We get plenty of training".

What has improved since the last inspection?

Staff had continued to receive appropriate training including Deprivation of Liberty and Mental Capacity Act training. It is important that staffs training is closely monitored and that appropriate training is provided so that people using the service can and should benefit from a skilled staff team carrying out good practice at all times. Improvements had been made to environment including new flooring in the lounge and dining room, new furniture in some bedrooms and the redecoration of the main living areas.

What the care home could do better:

Medication that needs to be given `as and when required` could be better managed to ensure that balances of all medication stored in the home can be accounted for at all times and to minimise any potential risk of errors occurring when medication is being administered to people living in the home.