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Inspection on 04/05/06 for Alston Court

Also see our care home review for Alston Court for more information

This inspection was carried out on 4th May 2006.

CSCI has not published a star rating for this report, though using similar criteria we estimate that the report is (sorry - unknown). 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 made no statutory requirements on the home as a result of this inspection and there were no outstanding actions from the previous inspection report.

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

Alston court provides a comfortable and informal living environment, for service users. Service users have personalised and individual accommodation in single rooms, some with en-suite facilities, and a choice of communal space, with two large lounges on the ground floor. All areas of the home seen were well furnished and attractive, which means that service users have a nice place in which to live. Many of the service users have lived at the home for a significant number of years as a group, and are well settled with strong relationships between them. Activities outside or inside of the home are encouraged, with many service users attending work or day centre placements. The owners `live in` at the premises. This means they know the service users very well, and are in close daily contact, sharing some meals. The home has good systems for consulting with service users, staff and relatives about how the home operates, which ensures that they have a say in the way in which the home is run. One service user when asked what was the best thing about living at the home commented "being here with all my friends" Another said "It`s really nice here". Comments from visiting professionals on the home included " provide a genuine home" and "The establishment is admirable". Relatives comments included " I have always been happy with Alston Court........I find the home a warm, friendly and happy atmosphere for residents and visitors alike".

What has improved since the last inspection?

Since the last inspection the owners have made a new office area in the basement, and improved accommodation for staff needling to sleep in. At the time of the inspection a new kitchen was being fitted, which has an area that is adapted for one service user who is a wheelchair user, so that they also can participate in activities such as drying up and preparing vegetables with ease.

What the care home could do better:

No requirements were identified at this inspection however discussions were held on making the quality assurance process more meaningful for some service users who find it difficult to communicate in or understand a questionnaire format, and the owner intends to work on this prior to the next inspection.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Alston Court 6 Fluder Hill Kingskerswell Newton Abbot Devon TQ12 5JD Lead Inspector Michelle Finniear Unannounced Inspection 4th May 2006 10:00 Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Alston Court Address 6 Fluder Hill Kingskerswell Newton Abbot Devon TQ12 5JD 01803 873558 01803 873558 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 Helen Marie Harris Mr Kenneth Richard Harris Mrs Helen Marie Harris Care Home 10 Category(ies) of Learning disability (10), Physical disability (10) registration, with number of places Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection Brief Description of the Service: Alston Court is a care home providing personal care and accommodation for 10 adults aged between 18 to 64 years, with learning disabilities and/or physical disabilities. The registered owners are Mr and Mrs Harris, and the manager is Mrs Helen Harris. The home is a large detached house within extensive grounds located on a hill on the outskirts of the village of Kingskerswell. It is approximately two miles from the town of Newton Abbot. Amenities in Newton Abbot include super stores and high street shops, public houses, a post office, racecourse and railway station. There is easy access into the city of Exeter, by a regular bus or train service. The home was first registered in 1992. The accommodation is on two floors with access via a staircase. All bedrooms are for single occupancy, and two have en-suite facilities. There are two lounges on the ground floor. There are far reaching views of the countryside from many of the rooms. Fee levels for placements at the home are £350.00 per week. Some additional charges are made for transportation. CSCI Inspection reports are available in the home for service users or others to read if they wish. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This report is a summary of a cycle of Inspection activity at Alston Court in the last year. To provide the evidence on which the judgements were based the owner completed a document about the running of the home; documents submitted since the last inspection were examined along with the findings of the last inspection report; a site visit of 6 ½ hours was carried out with no prior notice being given to the home as to the date and timing; discussions were held with the owner and staff on duty; various records were sampled, such as accident books and medication records; questionnaires were sent to service users; and a tour was made of the home and gardens. In addition a sample group of service users were selected and their experience of care was ‘tracked’ and followed through records and discussions with staff and management from the early days of their admission to the current date – looking at how well the home understands and meets their needs, and the opportunities and lifestyle they experience. These service users were then interviewed in private, and questionnaires were sent, with their permission to their relatives, general practitioners and care managers where appropriate. This approach hopes to gather as much information about what the experience of living at the home is really like. What the service does well: Alston court provides a comfortable and informal living environment, for service users. Service users have personalised and individual accommodation in single rooms, some with en-suite facilities, and a choice of communal space, with two large lounges on the ground floor. All areas of the home seen were well furnished and attractive, which means that service users have a nice place in which to live. Many of the service users have lived at the home for a significant number of years as a group, and are well settled with strong relationships between them. Activities outside or inside of the home are encouraged, with many service users attending work or day centre placements. The owners ‘live in’ at the premises. This means they know the service users very well, and are in close daily contact, sharing some meals. The home has good systems for consulting with service users, staff and relatives about how the home operates, which ensures that they have a say in the way in which the home is run. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 6 One service user when asked what was the best thing about living at the home commented “being here with all my friends” Another said “It’s really nice here”. Comments from visiting professionals on the home included “ provide a genuine home” and “The establishment is admirable”. Relatives comments included “ I have always been happy with Alston Court……..I find the home a warm, friendly and happy atmosphere for residents and visitors alike”. 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. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. The quality in this outcome area was good. The home provides good information for service users and prospective service users about what they can expect from the home. Full assessments are undertaken prior to admission to ensure that the prospective service user knows what they can expect to receive for their fees, and the home is aware they can meet the service users needs in full. EVIDENCE: The home has a statement of purpose and a service user guide. These documents set out what the home aims to provide for service users and outlines standards such as those for the qualifications of staff and the activities available at the home; in the service user guide this is in plain language and symbols to support understanding. These documents may be given to potential service users prior to admission to help them make a decision about whether they would like to live at the home. Current service users also have a copy. The home has a clear admissions process. Three service user files were selected at random and their care was followed through all the relevant documentation. Two of the service users had been admitted under previous legislation, however it was evident that a full assessment had been undertaken prior to the admission. Assessments and pre-admission trials are important as they allow the service user to decide if they would like to live at the home and Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 9 to ensure that the home can meet their needs. For the home it also assures that the service user will be compatible with the existing service user group. For the most recent admission the current owner had completed a full assessment prior to a decision being made. This assessment covered all areas of the service users aspirations and lifestyle choices, and other assessments obtained prior to admission included a copy of an assessment made by Social Services. The home confirmed in writing to the resident prior to admission that they could meet their health and welfare needs. This helps to ensure everyone is aware of what the home is providing for what fee. Assessments are regularly updated and used to compile plans for the service users care needs and how these are to be addressed. Prospective service users are encouraged to visit the home and stay overnight if wished to ensure they have every opportunity to know what life is like at the home. Service user files also contained copies of contracts or statements of terms and conditions. These outline the fees to be paid and what services are covered for the fees. They also contain information on rights and responsibilities of both parties involved. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 6,7, 9, The quality in this outcome area was good. The needs, wishes and choices of residents are recorded, and residents personal development is supported well by the systems in place. Residents are supported to make choices in their daily lives, underpinned by a realistic acknowledgement of risks. EVIDENCE: Each service user has an individual plan of how to meet their care needs, regularly updated and based upon a full assessment. On the site visit, plans for three service users were seen, which had all updated in April 2006, and had been signed by the service user themselves as being in accordance with their wishes. Plans have a positive enabling focus, and were later related to and discussed with the individual service user and found to reflect their needs appropriately. As an example, one service users plan indicated that they were having problems with mobility. The service user had been referred to physiotherapy services and had as a result received a programme of exercises. They confirmed that they did their exercises and Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 11 could show me information in their room about what they needed to do every day. Separate records are kept reflecting service user activity on a daily basis, and one service user keeps their own diary which was seen with their permission. Service users are encouraged to make decisions about their lives, and to take responsible risks which enable growth and development. The majority of service users for example were going to Florida a fortnight after the site visit, which was a holiday of their choice. Two service users had chosen other options – one was going to Wales and another to Lanzarote. Risk assessments have been completed by the home owner, and actions taken where necessary to ensure service users are able to take part in all activities they wish. Assessments included for example making preparations for taking insulin and needles aboard an aeroplane, risk assessing transfers and mobility issues on the aircraft and assessments of accommodation available. The home has good systems for engaging with service users in determining their wishes, and all decisions regarding risks were detailed in the service user files seen on the site visit. One service user had recently suffered a bereavement. On the site visit, evidence was seen and heard of them being supported at the time of the death, during the funeral service and afterwards with coming to terms with and understanding their loss. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 12, 13, 15, 16, 17 The quality in this outcome area was good. Service users follow full and active lives. EVIDENCE: Service users spoken to on the site visit confirmed that they followed a variety of activities and had good contacts outside of the home in several cases. Of the three service users chosen to follow for this part of the inspection, one was out a day centre, another was out shopping with staff for their forthcoming holiday, and one was not well, so was not attending their usual work placement, but was being looked after at home. Each service user has a wall chart detailing in words and pictorial format their daily schedule for the week ahead. Activities on offer included cooking, gardening, games and quizzes, arts and crafts/pottery, movement and dance, video evenings, animal care, personal care, attendance at educational and training placements, job placements, Swimming, Pub and cinema trips, clubs and discos, walks and organised trips. Service users spoken on the visit to confirmed they followed a variety of activities, and had involvement in the local area and with local facilities. This is important in helping the person feel a valued member of the local community, whatever their disability. This was confirmed by relatives who Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 13 commented that the service users “enjoy a full life”. One commented that their relative “was supported well by staff in learning new skills inside and outside of the home”. The home owner has devised a new menu planning system which ensures that each person regularly has the main meal of their choice chosen for everyone. Alternatives are provided where necessary, and the menus demonstrated a good variety and choice of foods served. One service user said they were being careful about their diet, but didn’t like “rabbit food”. All service users spoken to confirmed that they enjoyed the meals served. The main meal of the day is taken in the evening, and on the day of the site visit this was to be liver and bacon, with an alternative of sausage casserole for those who did not want the main choice. Two service users are diabetic, and evidence could be seen of appropriate provision for their dietary needs. Discussion with one service user with diabetes confirmed that they were well aware of what they should and should not eat, and of the effects of this on their diabetic management. Service users are encouraged to take a part in the shopping and meal preparation whenever they are able. One service user spoken to confirmed they did not do this. Another enjoyed laying the table as a part of their contribution. Service users participation in daily activities helps develop their skills and feel they have a role in the running of the home. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 18, 19, 20, The quality in this outcome area was good. Service users receive the help they need to manage their healthcare. EVIDENCE: Discussions with service users on the site visit indicated that they receive appropriate help to manage their healthcare needs in a way that allows them maximum independence. As an example one service user indicated that they administer their own insulin, under supervision from staff. The service user was fully aware of their disease and the implications of high blood sugar, and could discuss exactly what their blood glucose levels should be to achieve maximum protection. The service user holds their own insulin pen and tests their own blood daily. In this way the service user has maximum control of their condition, but it is still being monitored safely by staff. Several healthcare practitioners who visit the home were consulted during this inspection with the service users permission. Returned comments confirmed that the home “communicates well about problems and seeks medical advice where appropriate.” Another service user confirmed that they have access to specialist moving and handling equipment and a specialist mattress to prevent skin breakdown. They confirmed that staff managed their care in the way that they wished. They also Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 15 confirmed that staff respected their privacy by knocking on doors before entering, and that their door was always closed when giving personal care. The homes systems for managing medication were also seen on the visit. The home has a medication policy and procedure and uses a monitored dosage system which means that medication is blister packed by the supplying pharmacist. This system reduces the risks of errors and makes it easier to check if medication has been given on a particular occasion. The medication cupboard was clean and clear of excessive stock, and all records seen were recorded appropriately. Some medication was being stored in the homes refrigerator on a temporary basis until a new medication fridge which has been purchased is fitted. The homes storage and policy on administration is checked regularly by the supplying pharmacist – evidence seen showed this was done last in September 2005. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 22, 23 Quality in this outcome area is good. Alston Court has satisfactory formal and informal complaints systems, which ensures service users have opportunities to air their views. Adult protection procedures are in place. EVIDENCE: Alston Court has a complaints policy and process, which clearly states what action needs to be followed in the case of someone wishing to make a complaint. This was seen on the site visit. Service users who completed comment cards mostly said they were aware of how to make a complaint at the home. One said they were not, and it is acknowledged that there are service users at the home who would not be able to access a formal process. In these instances staff demonstrated they were aware of the importance of monitoring behaviour and enabling more informal routes of communication, such as through service user meetings and close daily contact. Evidence could be seen on the site visit of staff having attended a protection of vulnerable adults course, and the home has comprehensive policies in relation to addressing adult protection issues, including Whistle blowing. No complaints have been received since the last inspection cycle, however a service user was supported in making a complaint about someone unconnected with the home. This demonstrated the home had a good understanding of service users rights as citizens, and protection of the service user during a potentially distressing process. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 17 A relative confirmed that if they had any concerns they would contact the home directly. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 Quality in this outcome area is good. Alston court provides an attractive, homely and safe environment for service users to live in and staff to work in. EVIDENCE: All areas of the home seen on the site visit were clean, warm and comfortable and decorated in a homely and attractive fashion. Each of the residents at Alston Court has a single bedroom, decorated to their taste, with some having en-suite facilities. Plans are in hand to continue with a programme of renovation of bedrooms, communal lounges and the stairs/hallway area. The home also has plans to increase the size of one service users room as it is below current spatial standards. This will help to ensue all service users environment remains well maintained and attractive. There are two lounges on the ground floor, offering opportunities for residents to mix in small groups. At the time of the site visit the kitchen was being renovated and replaced, which has incorporated specific features to ensure a service user who is a wheelchair user is not disadvantaged in using this area. On the ground floor is a residents bedroom suitable for wheelchair users. A wheelchair accessible shower facility is also available on the ground floor. Occupational therapy assessments have been undertaken for residents Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 19 requiring physical support or environmental adaptation to meet their care needs. There is no lift to the first floor. There is a laundry on the ground floor, which would be accessible for residents to do their own laundry with support or independently, and one was doing so on the day of the inspection. Policies are in place for the control of infection, including staff training and the manager has policies for the safe storage of cleaning materials. Automatic water temperature regulation is provided and risk assessments have been undertaken for hot surface protection, for the environment and for safe working practices. Plans are also in hand to develop areas of the garden, which were discussed. This will create better seating areas, greater access for service users with mobility problems, and a re-surfacing of the driveway. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 32, 34, 35 Quality in this outcome area is good. The home has robust procedures for the recruitment, training and retention of staff, several of whom are family members. EVIDENCE: Alston Court has clear processes for the recruitment, selection and retention of staff, which offers a good protection for residents. Three staff files were selected at random for inspection on the site visit, and anonymous questionnaires were given to four staff members. Files contained all required information and demonstrated that all of the required checks, such as a criminal records bureau check and references were taken up on appointment. These checks are important as they help to protect service users from being cleared for by staff who may be unsuitable to be working with vulnerable people. Job descriptions are available for all levels of staff within the home. Seven out of ten staff involved with service user care have achieved their NVQ level 2, however three are still awaiting certificates to evidence this. The NVQ award is a national qualification recording the competencies of staff, and should ensure service users receive a consistently good service. Training records were also seen on the site visit. The induction systems for new staff are based on the learning disability award framework (verification Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 21 awaited) and the manager/owner is currently undertaking an award in teaching adults. Residents spoken to during the site visit interacted with staff in an informal and clearly affectionate manner, and were supported by them well in the observations undertaken. Staffing levels seen were flexible to meet the changing daily needs of residents and additional staff are on duty at times of greatest activity. Some service users are out of the building for much of the day, so evenings and mornings can be times of most activity and interaction. A staff training and development programme was seen on the site visit. This demonstrated staff attendance at core training updates as well as resident specific or developmental topics, and further training is booked in moving and handling, first aid, fire training, medication, palliative care and safety/management. Discussion was held with a staff member about training. The staff training programme is comprehensive and means service users will be supported by well-trained staff, who are able to understand their needs and deliver their care appropriately. In addition, staff files showed evidence of formal supervision on a regular basis. Supervision is a system of staff appraisal and development planning. Appropriate supervision will ensure staff are working at their optimum level and providing consistent care for service users. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 37, 39, 42 Quality in these outcome areas was good. The home is well managed, with clear leadership and guidance given to staff. Policies and procedures, including the arrangements for Health and safety, protect residents and staff from foreseeable risks. Quality assurance systems are in place, and may be developed further to ensure all service users can fully participate. EVIDENCE: Mrs Helen Harris is the registered manager as well as being joint owner with her husband. She has many years experience of working with people in care settings and has achieved the registered managers qualification, which is a specific award related to managing a care home. There is a good system for quality assurance and quality management at Alston Court, a copy of the results of which have been supplied to the Commission for social Care inspection. The development plan and questionnaires for this year were seen, and discussion was held on ways of Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 23 improving the quality of responses from service users who are unable to give meaningful responses to a questionnaire. The system in use provides for annual questionnaires to be sent to residents, visitors and interested parties and formal consultation is held with the staff group. These are then used to compile a report and affect policy and practice. Policies are available within the home in the hallway for staff consultation, and policies/documentation sampled during the site visit were appropriate to the resident group and the environment of the home. Records sampled on the site visit were maintained securely in the new lower ground floor office and had been regularly updated. The registered manager is responsible for day-to-day health and safety issues at the home, and inspection of maintenance contracts, fire testing, and electrical tests on the site visit was satisfactory. Staff receive training in all aspects of health and safety, which should help to protect themselves and service users from foreseeable risks. Appropriate arrangements are made for the business and financial management within the home, and insurance certificates are on display. Resident finances are maintained in individual personal bank accounts which were seen on the site visit, and where residents are billed for day-to-day expenditure appropriate accounting practices are maintained. Residents spoken to confirmed they had easy access to their own money, but discussions with some indicated that they had little understanding of the meaning and value of the money that they had. It is important that service users maintain as much control as possible to retain their independence. Current arrangements seen appear to meet this balance. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 24 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 3 3 3 4 3 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 3 27 3 28 3 29 3 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 3 PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Score 3 3 3 x 3 x 3 x x 3 x Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 25 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. Standard Regulation Requirement Timescale for action 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 YA24 Good Practice Recommendations The home should develop the quality assurance system to include as far as possible methods to ascertain the perceptions of all the service users who live at the home. Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 26 Commission for Social Care Inspection Ashburton Office Unit D1 Linhay Business Park Ashburton TQ13 7UP National Enquiry Line: 0845 015 0120 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 Alston Court DS0000065029.V289427.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 27 - 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. Discrete codes and changes have been inserted throughout the textual data shown on the site that will provide incontrovertable proof of copying in the event this information is re-published on other websites. 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