Inspection on 14/11/06 for Albany House

This inspection was carried out on 14th November 2006.

CSCI has not published a star rating for this report, though using similar criteria we estimate that the report is Good. The way we rate inspection reports is consistent for all houses, though please be aware that this may be different from an official CSCI judgement.

The inspector found no outstanding requirements from the previous inspection report, but made 1 statutory requirements (actions the home must comply with) as a result of this inspection.

Other inspections for this house

Albany House 20/10/08

Albany House 10/10/05

Albany House 13/06/05

Albany House 15/03/05

Albany House 09/08/04

Albany House 06/05/04

Albany House 16/12/03

Extracts from inspection reports are licensed from CQC, this page was updated on 08/07/2008.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Albany House 17 Esplanade Whitley Bay Tyne & Wear NE26 2AH Lead Inspector Jim Lamb Key Unannounced Inspection 14th November 2006 10:30 Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 1 The Commission for Social Care Inspection aims to: • • • • Put the people who use social care first Improve services and stamp out bad practice Be an expert voice on social care Practise what we preach in our own organisation Reader Information Document Purpose Author Audience Further copies from Copyright Inspection Report CSCI General Public 0870 240 7535 (telephone order line) This report is copyright Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) and may only be used in its entirety. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the express permission of CSCI www.csci.org.uk Internet address Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 2 This is a report of an inspection to assess whether services are meeting the needs of people who use them. The legal basis for conducting inspections is the Care Standards Act 2000 and the relevant National Minimum Standards for this establishment are those for Care Homes for Adults 18-65. They can be found at www.dh.gov.uk or obtained from The Stationery Office (TSO) PO Box 29, St Crispins, Duke Street, Norwich, NR3 1GN. Tel: 0870 600 5522. Online ordering: www.tso.co.uk/bookshop This report is a public document. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the prior permission of the Commission for Social Care Inspection. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Albany House Address 17 Esplanade Whitley Bay Tyne & Wear NE26 2AH 0191 2525021 Telephone number Fax number Email address Provider Web address Name of registered provider(s)/company (if applicable) Name of registered manager (if applicable) Type of registration No. of places registered (if applicable) Mrs Anne Elkin Mrs Anne Elkin Care Home 10 Category(ies) of Mental disorder, excluding learning disability or registration, with number dementia (6), Mental Disorder, excluding of places learning disability or dementia - over 65 years of age (4) Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection 10th October 2005 Brief Description of the Service: Albany House provides care and accommodation for 10 service users who have mental health needs. The home is situated on The Esplanade, a busy street close to the sea front in the coastal town of Whitley Bay. The towns many shops and leisure facilities are very accessible and the area has good transport links. The accommodation is provided over three floors within a converted Victorian terraced house. All bedrooms are single, and there are an appropriate number of bathrooms and toilets. On street parking is available for non-permit holders on the opposite side of the street at the front of the home. The rear yard has a sitting area that is easily accessible. Fees for the home range from £300 to £400. Copies of inspection reports and information about the service are available in the home. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This was an unannounced key inspection visit. The inspection took place during the morning and early afternoon. Time was spent talking the manager, two staff and four service users. Service users care records were inspected together with other records relating to the management of the service. A tour of the premises also took place. Nine service users feedback cards were received; all indicated that they were happy with all aspects of the care that they receive. Two staff employment files were also examined. Care records were looked at for some of the service users spoken to. Information was provided by the home prior to this inspection, and this was used in the production of this report. What the service does well: The staff have a good understanding of the service users support needs. Links with the community are good, and staff continue to support each service users’ social and recreational needs. Service users enjoy freedom of movement both inside and outside the home. The manager regularly reviews the homes performance through a good programme of self-review and consultation with service users. The service users spoken to said that staff listened to them, and took what they said seriously. The meals are varied and service users help to prepare meals. The service users spoken to said that the meals were generally very good. Two visiting relatives spoken to said, “This is a great place, the care here is very good”. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 6 What has improved since the last inspection? What they could do better: Please contact the provider for advice of actions taken in response to this inspection. The report of this inspection is available from enquiries@csci.gsi.gov.uk or by contacting your local CSCI office. The summary of this inspection report can be made available in other formats on request. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 7 DETAILS OF INSPECTOR FINDINGS CONTENTS Choice of Home (Standards 1–5) Individual Needs and Choices (Standards 6-10) Lifestyle (Standards 11-17) Personal and Healthcare Support (Standards 18-21) Concerns, Complaints and Protection (Standards 22-23) Environment (Standards 24-30) Staffing (Standards 31-36) Conduct and Management of the Home (Standards 37 – 43) Scoring of Outcomes Statutory Requirements Identified During the Inspection Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 8 Choice of Home The intended outcomes for Standards 1 – 5 are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Prospective service users have the information they need to make an informed choice about where to live. Prospective users’ individual aspirations and needs are assessed. Prospective service users know that the home that they will choose will meet their needs and aspirations. Prospective service users have an opportunity to visit and to “test drive” the home. Each service user has an individual written contract or statement of terms and conditions with the home. The Commission consider Standard 2 the key standard to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 1 3 5. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Prospective service users are provided with enough information about the service to enable them to make a choice about where they want to live. All service users are appropriately assessed prior to admission into the home, which means that staff know they can meet their needs. All are provided with a written contract explaining the terms and conditions of the home. EVIDENCE: Details of the extra charges, and what these are for, are in the contract given to service users and are agreed prior to their admission. The home’s Statement of Purpose and the Service Users Guide both contained the full range of information required. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 9 Two service users’ files were checked and each included a full up to date needs assessment. They contained a range of appropriate information. The service users are involved in drawing up both these initial assessments and the home’s subsequent service user plans. For those self-funding and without a Care Managers assessment, a skilled member of staff always undertakes the assessment. The assessment also involves the family or a representative of the service user. The service users said their needs were met and they were happy with the care offered to them. The care plans were checked and staff interviewed, which confirmed that a range of specialist services was provided to service users. Staff interviewed had had a range of relevant training and experience. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 10 Individual Needs and Choices The intended outcomes for Standards 6 – 10 are: 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Service users know their assessed and changing needs and personal goals are reflected in their individual Plan. Service users make decisions about their lives with assistance as needed. Service users are consulted on, and participate in, all aspects of life in the home. Service users are supported to take risks as part of an independent lifestyle. Service users know that information about them is handled appropriately, and that their confidences are kept. The Commission considers Standards 6, 7 and 9 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 6 7 9. Quality in this outcome area is good This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The care planning system is clear enough to ensure that staff have the information they need to meet the assessed needs of the service users. Service users are supported to make decisions about their lives, and take risks to promote their independence. EVIDENCE: There is a comprehensive assessment in the service users’ care records. There is also a comprehensive risk assessment of service users. The management of risk takes into account their needs and aspirations for independence and choice. The service users have signed these. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 11 There are advocacy arrangements, as well as family input to represent service users. Each service user has an allocated key worker. Staff were observed communicating with service users in a kind, considerate and helpful manner. Service users spoken to confirmed that staff respect their privacy and treated them in a dignified manner. Care plans are drawn up with service users. Plans are amended and reviewed on a regular basis. The care plan is a working tool and is understood by service users, by staff, and service users’ representatives. There are systems in place to ensure the care plans are reviewed and updated. The service arranges additional reviews when changes take place. Staff spend time with service users to communicate their views for the ongoing development of the care plan and the annual review process. Service users, care managers and their representatives attend annual reviews. Self-advocacy is promoted and service users can access a range of external agencies that promote independence. Any rights that are restricted are linked to risk assessments. Service users all indicated that they are able to make decisions for themselves. One service user said, “I enjoy spending a lot of my time in the town centre and walking along the sea front, I am able to come and go as I please. Mrs Elkin and the staff are great people”. Another said, “I am aware that there are records kept about me, and staff do ask me about becoming involved in these, but I am not really interested. I am happy living here, the staff team are very good”. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 12 Lifestyle The intended outcomes for Standards 11 - 17 are: 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. Service users have opportunities for personal development. Service users are able to take part in age, peer and culturally appropriate activities. Service users are part of the local community. Service users engage in appropriate leisure activities. Service users have appropriate personal, family and sexual relationships. Service users’ rights are respected and responsibilities recognised in their daily lives. Service users are offered a healthy diet and enjoy their meals and mealtimes. The Commission considers Standards 12, 13, 15, 16 and 17 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 12 13 15 16 17. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The meals in the home are good, offering both choice and variety. The service users have opportunities for personal development and leisure activities. They are supported to maintain very good links with the community and their relatives and friends. EVIDENCE: Each service user had practical health and personal skills assessment carried out. This is reviewed and updated on a regular basis. All service users participate in this process. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 13 Service users are supported to live a normal life in the community. They are supported and encouraged to be in control of their own lives, and enjoy their own interests and hobbies. Some service users have a community support worker allocated to them. This supports them to enjoy a more stimulating lifestyle with a choice of options to choose from. One service user said, “Mrs Elkin quite often arranges nights out for us. We were at the Play House last week, and we went for an Indian meal the other night, we had a great time and drank lots of wine”. The staff team continue to liaise closely with external agencies in order to monitor each service user’s progress. One service user has a job at Capabilities in Byker. She said, “I work in the print shop, and I really enjoy working there”. All service users are supported to maintain very close links with their families. They can choose who they want to see and when. Daily routines promote independence, choice and freedom of movement. All service users are involved in light housekeeping tasks. The menus are based on the known likes and dislikes of the service users. At least two hot meals are provided each day. The meals are varied and well balanced. The service users said that the meals were good. Special diets are provided as and when needed. Service users have access to the kitchen and can prepare snacks for themselves if they wish. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 14 Personal and Healthcare Support The intended outcomes for Standards 18 - 21 are: 18. 19. 20. 21. Service users receive personal support in the way they prefer and require. Service users’ physical and emotional health needs are met. Service users retain, administer and control their own medication where appropriate, and are protected by the home’s policies and procedures for dealing with medicines. The ageing, illness and death of a service user are handled with respect and as the individual would wish. The Commission considers Standards 18, 19, and 20 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 18 19 20. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The health care of the service users is met and there is good multi disciplinary working taking place. The promotion of health care needs is taken seriously. Medication systems are well managed. Personal support is always provided in the way that service users prefer. EVIDENCE: Service users need minimal help with their personal care. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 15 Privacy and dignity are respected at all times. The need to respect service users privacy and dignity when delivering health and personal care is a key principle of the homes aims and objectives. Staff are aware that this also applies to all areas of the service users life. The homes policies, procedures and guidance support and inform practice. Induction training also covers privacy and dignity. Service users care records showed that they have access to external health care services. G.Ps visit when necessary. Service users are referred for specialist health care if appropriate. All service users receive regular health care checks. District nurses provide very good support if called upon. They maintain their own health care records, and if necessary will ensure that the service has appropriate aids and equipment in place. Occupational therapists would be consulted regarding any specialist equipment that the service may need. The medication systems were examined for ordering, receiving, administering and disposal. All were found to be well maintained. All staff have had accredited medication training. Controlled drugs are not currently prescribed. Should this change; appropriate systems and procedures will be put in place. There is a medication policy which is accessible to staff. The dispensing pharmacist offers good support and advice. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 16 Concerns, Complaints and Protection The intended outcomes for Standards 22 – 23 are: 22. 23. Service users feel their views are listened to and acted on. Service users are protected from abuse, neglect and self-harm. The Commission considers Standards 22, and 23 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 22 23. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The home has a good, clear, user-friendly complaints system and service user’s views are listened to and acted upon. Procedures are in place to protect service users from harm, and these are followed. EVIDENCE: There is a complaints procedure. The procedure is written in a way that ensures service users fully understand its contents. All complaints are investigated within 28 days. Service users said that they had been given copies of the procedure and that staff listened to their complaints and dealt with them fairly. There is an appropriate complaints recording system in place. During the last twelve months there have been no complaints received. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 17 The service users spoken to said, “That they fully understood the complaints procedures, and would not hesitate to make a complaint if they needed to. The service has a Whistle Blowing policy and a copy of the Local Authorities Vulnerable Adults procedures. Training of staff in the area of protection is regularly arranged. The service ensures, through training, supervision, review and quality monitoring, that care staff fully comply with policy and procedures in relation to protecting and safeguarding the rights of the service users. The service also has a copy of the Department of Health’s document, “NO SECRETS”. The service keeps detailed financial records on behalf of the service users. Each has an individual bank account. Service users are encouraged to take responsibility for their own financial affairs and to use their money as they wish. Staff will support those who need help in financial matters. They work to a clear robust policy that protects service users from financial abuse. Receipts of personal spending are kept. An audit of service users’ finances is carried out. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 18 Environment The intended outcomes for Standards 24 – 30 are: 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. Service users live in a homely, comfortable and safe environment. Service users’ bedrooms suit their needs and lifestyles. Service users’ bedrooms promote their independence. Service users’ toilets and bathrooms provide sufficient privacy and meet their individual needs. Shared spaces complement and supplement service users’ individual rooms. Service users have the specialist equipment they require to maximise their independence. The home is clean and hygienic. The Commission considers Standards 24, and 30 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 24 25 27 28 30. Quality in this outcome area is adequate. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The home provides a comfortable and safe environment for those living there. The standard and decoration within the home is generally good. Some areas still need to be improved. Communal areas and bedrooms meet the service users needs. All areas within the home are well maintained, clean, tidy and free from offensive odours. EVIDENCE: The home was clean, relatively well decorated and maintained. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 19 The grounds were tidy, safe, and accessible. The home does not meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act and the layout and design is un-suitable to meet the specific needs of people with a physical disability. The manager is aware of these restrictions, and all current service users are physically able to climb stairs etc. No aids and adaptations are needed. Service users can see visitors in private in their own rooms. All bedrooms have privacy locks and each service users keeps their own key. Furnishings and fittings were domestic in design and in relatively good condition. Room sizes do not all meet the minimum required. The service users spoken to said that they were happy with the space available. The bedrooms are quite nicely decorated, and personalised. All bedrooms have opening windows. The rooms were centrally heated and the heating level could be controlled within each bedroom. The home is well lit, clean and tidy and smells fresh. The kitchen was found to be clean and well organised and stock levels were good. Appropriate checks are carried out including food and fridge temperatures. Water is stored at over 60°C. Valves at water outlets ensure water is provided close to 43°C to prevent scalding. To promote the service users health and hygiene, all bathrooms and toilets should have liquid soap and paper hand towels available. The home was clean and free from offensive odours. The laundry facilities are well organised, and the washing machine has a disinfection control cycle. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 20 Staffing The intended outcomes for Standards 31 – 36 are: 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. Service users benefit from clarity of staff roles and responsibilities. Service users are supported by competent and qualified staff. Service users are supported by an effective staff team. Service users are supported and protected by the home’s recruitment policy and practices. Service users’ individual and joint needs are met by appropriately trained staff. Service users benefit from well supported and supervised staff. The Commission considers Standards 32, 34 and 35 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 32 34 35. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. There is a good match of well-qualified staff offering consistency of care within the home. There are robust procedures in place for the recruitment and selection of new staff, which helps to protect service users. The staff receive supervision and this provides understanding of the service users support needs. them with a good EVIDENCE: Samples of 4 weeks’ rotas showed the required numbers of staff were on duty: 1 staff between 8am and 9pm with one sleep-in between 9pm and 8am. In the event of an emergency there is a standby system that operates. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 Mrs Elkin continues to manage Albany House and the homes sister home Falmouth House. The homes deputy manager also divides her time between both homes. All the staff were over 18 years of age and those left in charge were at least 21. Training needs of staff are identified in supervision and appraisal sessions. The training programme meets The requirements for the first six months. All staff receive paid training. The management prioritise training and facilitate staff to undertake external qualifications beyond the basic requirements. Currently 90 of the staff team have achieved NVQ level 2/3. Two staff files were examined. The service continues to operate a rigorous staff recruitment and selection process to ensure that all appropriate checks and references are in place prior to employment. The manager said that service users are involved informally with the selection of new staff. The service sees induction and any probationary period as being an extension of recruitment. There is little use of agency or temporary staff. Staff turnover remains low. National Training Organisation Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 22 Conduct and Management of the Home The intended outcomes for Standards 37 – 43 are: 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. Service users benefit from a well run home. Service users benefit from the ethos, leadership and management approach of the home. Service users are confident their views underpin all self-monitoring, review and development by the home. Service users’ rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s policies and procedures. Service users’ rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s record keeping policies and procedures. The health, safety and welfare of service users are promoted and protected. Service users benefit from competent and accountable management of the service. The Commission considers Standards 37, 39, and 42 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 37 39 42. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The manager provides clear leadership throughout the home with all staff demonstrating an awareness of their roles and responsibilities. The systems for service users’ consultation are good, and service user’s views are both sought and acted upon. The health and safety of the service users is promoted. The staff are aware of equality and diversity and its implications. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 23 EVIDENCE: Mrs Elkin has the required qualification and experience, and is competent to run the home and meet its stated aims and objectives. Mr Elkin continues to be actively involved in the management of the home. The staff member interviewed was clear about her responsibilities. She had a very good knowledge of the service users assessed needs. Staff and service users spoke positively about the manager saying she had encouraged them to contribute to the development of the service. There is a strong ethos of being open and transparent in all areas of running the home. Service users are told when inspections take place and they are shown inspection reports. These are also summarised and discussed in service user meetings. Copies are available for relatives and others to see. The service has sound policies and procedures, which the manager effectively reviews and updates, in line with current thinking and practice. Systems are in place to monitor staff adherence to policies and procedures. The service is aware of equality and diversity and its implications, and strives to promote the diversity agenda within the service. A new policy has recently been implemented. There are plans to continue to seek further improvements through research and training and keeping up to date with best practice in the areas of race, ethnicity, age, sexuality, gender, disability, and belief. These will enable staff to translate their understanding into positive outcomes for service users. The service continues to operate a good quality assurance system. Service users’ views are sought and acted upon. Relatives and professionals are also consulted. The service has a good record of meeting relevant health and safety requirements and legislation. The records inspected were found to be appropriately completed. These included the fire log book, accident records, personal allowance records and Health and Safey manual. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 24 There are appropriate maintenance contracts for the home. Water storage tanks, gas and electrics are checked annually. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 25 SCORING OF OUTCOMES This page summarises the assessment of the extent to which the National Minimum Standards for Care Homes for Adults 18-65 have been met and uses the following scale. The scale ranges from: 4 Standard Exceeded 2 Standard Almost Met (Commendable) (Minor Shortfalls) 3 Standard Met 1 Standard Not Met (No Shortfalls) (Major Shortfalls) “X” in the standard met box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion “N/A” in the standard met box denotes standard not applicable CHOICE OF HOME Standard No Score 1 3 2 X 3 3 4 X 5 3 INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 Score CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS Standard No Score 22 3 23 3 ENVIRONMENT Standard No Score 24 3 25 3 26 X 27 2 28 3 29 X 30 3 STAFFING Standard No Score 31 X 32 3 33 X 34 3 35 3 36 X CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 3 3 X 3 X LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 X 12 3 13 3 14 X 15 3 16 3 17 PERSONAL SUPPORT AND 3 HEALTHCARE Score Standard No 18 19 20 21 3 3 3 X 3 X 3 X X 3 X Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 26 No Are there any outstanding requirements from the last inspection? STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS This section sets out the actions, which must be taken so that the registered person/s meets the Care Standards Act 2000, Care Homes Regulations 2001 and the National Minimum Standards. The Registered Provider(s) must comply with the given timescales. No. 1. Standard YA27 Regulation 23 Requirement Provide all bathrooms and toilets with liquid soap and paper hand towels. Timescale for action 20/12/06 RECOMMENDATIONS These recommendations relate to National Minimum Standards and are seen as good practice for the Registered Provider/s to consider carrying out. No. 1 Refer to Standard YA32 Good Practice Recommendations Provide staff with equality and diversity training within the next six months. Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 27 Commission for Social Care Inspection Cramlington Area Office Northumbria House Manor Walks Cramlington Northumberland NE23 6UR National Enquiry Line: Telephone: 0845 015 0120 or 0191 233 3323 Textphone: 0845 015 2255 or 0191 233 3588 Email: enquiries@csci.gsi.gov.uk Web: www.csci.org.uk © This report is copyright Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) and may only be used in its entirety. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the express permission of CSCI Albany House DS0000000362.V304272.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 28 - Please note that this information is included on www.bestcarehome.co.uk under license from the regulator. Re-publishing this information is in breach of the terms of use of that website. 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