CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65
Amber Lodge Residential Home 394/396 London Road South Lowestoft Suffolk NR33 0BQ Lead Inspector
Julie Small Unannounced Inspection 3rd November 2005 10:10 Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION
Name of service Amber Lodge Residential Home Address 394/396 London Road South Lowestoft Suffolk NR33 0BQ 01502 572586 01502 572650 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) Amber Care (East Anglia) Ltd Mr Ryan Stanton Care Home 13 Category(ies) of Learning disability (13) registration, with number of places Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION
Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection 7th February 2005 Brief Description of the Service: Amber Lodge provides residential care for thirteen adults with learning disabilities. The building comprises of two large interlinked terraced houses on the main road into Lowestoft and is a short walk to the beach. Local shops and amenities are approximately half a mile to the home and there are good transport lines into central Lowestoft. The service offers all single bedrooms, two large communal rooms and a dinning room. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 5 SUMMARY
This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. The unannounced inspection took place on Thursday 3rd November 2005, from the time 10.10 to 14.20. The inspection was undertaken by Julie Small and the homes deputy manager assisted in the process. The manager at Amber Lodge left the service in September 2005; the deputy manager is currently performing the duties of the manager. The deputy manager confirmed that service users living at Amber Lodge are referred to as residents, this term will be used throughout the report. One resident was present during the inspection, who was preparing to go swimming; all other residents were attending their usual day centre and work arrangements. Methods of gathering evidence during the inspection included a tour of the building, discussion with the deputy manager, observation of work practice, and a brief discussion with the present resident and viewing of the homes policies and procedures and records. What the service does well: What has improved since the last inspection?
Repairs have been undertaken to the ceiling in the basement area, following a requirement in the last inspection. Medication procedures and records were viewed; records were complete and up to date. The homes policies and procedures were viewed, a recommendation from the last inspection was that they be dated, monitored and reviewed appropriately, and this recommendation has been met.
Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 6 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. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 Prospective residents can expect that they have the information they need to make an informed choice about where to live. EVIDENCE: The homes statement of purpose was viewed this included all required information, including the purpose of the home, staff and their qualifications, the homes complaints procedure and a description of the accommodation and communal space provided in the home. The statement of purpose provides a clear explanation regarding the service prospective residents can expect to receive from Amber Lodge. There is a service users guide, which summarises the information provided in the statement of purpose, this is provided to prospective residents. The homes statement of purpose includes the details regarding the previous manager to the home, who left the service in September. The deputy manager agreed that this should be updated, and will be updated with the details of a new manager when employed. The deputy manager confirmed that in cases where residents do not read, they will be supported by staff in reading to and explaining the information contained in these documents. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 9 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, 10 Residents can expect that their assessed and changing needs and personal goals are reflected in their individual plan, and that information about them is handled appropriately and their confidences are kept. EVIDENCE: Residents records viewed, were observed to be stored in a secure place in the home. The homes policies and procedures were viewed these included clear guidelines on confidentiality and good record keeping. Policies regarding adult protection advise staff about reporting concerns. Three residents records were viewed, all included clear individual care plans. Care plans identified the issue, the resident’s strengths, their goal regarding the issue and action required. All care plans showed evidence that they were regularly monitored and updated along with the residents changing needs and achievements. Resident’s records clearly identify aspects of the resident’s individual personal, social and health needs. Two residents records viewed show the input to residents provided from specialists, for example a psychiatrist and dates the specialist service has been accessed by the resident. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 10 Residents care plans clearly explain issues regarding the individual’s behaviour, in one case, triggers to aggressive behaviour and vulnerabilities one resident may face in the community with members of the opposite sex, and identify methods of working with the residents to meet the residents needs. Amber Lodge has a link worker system in place and each resident is provided with a link worker. Resident’s records viewed evidence where link workers have worked alongside residents in the reviewing of their care plans. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 11 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): 11, 13, 14, 15, 16 Residents can expect to have opportunities for personal development, are part of the local community and engage in appropriate leisure activities. Residents can expect to have appropriate personal, family and sexual relationships and their rights are respected and responsibilities recognised in their daily lives. EVIDENCE: Three residents records viewed contained care plans which showed how they should be supported by staff with their social, emotional, communication and independent living skills, care plans are monitored and updated regularly along with residents changing needs and achievements in their personal development skills. Residents records viewed provide weekly key worker checks, where residents are supported in the upkeep of their personal space. Activities in the weekly key worker checks include changing bed linen, vacuuming, dusting and sorting out of personal items. The deputy manager confirmed that this promotes the responsibilities that residents have in taking care of their personal belongings and space.
Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 12 Two residents records viewed showed that the residents are supported in attending the place of worship of their choice. Three residents records viewed evidence that residents take part in various activities in the home and in the local community. Activities and access to community facilities are recorded in residents care plans and are also recorded on an activities record. One resident was preparing to go swimming at a local swimming pool. The deputy manager and the resident discussed the activity, and choices were proposed to the resident. Travel arrangements, including the use of public transport and the need to complete the homes food shopping were discussed. Interaction was friendly and open. The resident told the inspector about a recent holiday they had attended. Residents at Amber Lodge attend various community events; one resident is a member of a local bowling club, attends a local café regularly and is a member of the committee in a local trust club. All residents attend local centres during the week. The home has a vehicle, which provides transport for residents. During a tour of the building, it was observed that the home provides the choice of two communal rooms and a dining room. One of the communal rooms is a comfortable lounge, which provides comfortable seating, a television, video and DVD player. One communal room provides a pool table, table tennis table, television and video and seating. The deputy manager confirmed that residents can choose where in the house they wish to relax, and said that most residents have their own television, video, DVD player and music systems in their room and can choose to remain in their room if they wish. The homes statement of purpose was viewed, this stated that resident’s visitors will be welcomed into the home and overnight stays for family could be arranged with prior notice. Resident’s records viewed show that residents are supported in maintaining contact with friends and family. One residents record viewed provided information on support the service user requires with relationships with the opposite sex. Work undertaken with the resident regarding their relationships and sexuality is clearly documented. The deputy manager confirmed support provided to residents with regards to personal relationships. The homes policies and procedures were viewed, and include policies on personal relationships and sexuality and alcohol and drugs. Resident’s care plans viewed show how their independence is promoted and supported in their daily routines. Residents have access to all communal areas of the home; the deputy manager confirmed that the kitchen is accessible to residents when they wish. During the inspection one resident was observed to prepare their own drinks and lunch, they cleaned away used items when they had finished. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 13 Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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): 20 Residents can expect that they are protected by the homes policies and procedures for dealing with medicines. EVIDENCE: Amber Lodge has a clear procedure for the storage and administration of medication, which was viewed during the inspection. The procedure has been updated and reviewed regularly. No residents currently living at the home self medicate. Resident’s arrangements for medication was clearly recorded in the three residents files viewed. Medication is stored appropriately in the basement area of the home. Medication records were viewed, these were appropriately maintained. The home uses the ‘Boots’ monitored dosage system. Three staff records viewed and evidenced that staff had attended safe handling of medicines and ‘Boots’ medication handling training. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 15 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 Residents can expect that their views are listened to and acted upon and that they are protected from abuse, neglect and self-harm. EVIDENCE: The complaints procedure was viewed, the procedure is clear and explains methods of complaining, and the procedure when a complaint is made. Contact details of the Commission for Social care Inspection (CSCI) is included in the complaints procedure. The homes complaints procedure is included in the homes statement of purpose. There have been no complaints since the last inspection. The deputy manager confirmed that resident’s family are provided with a copy of the complaints procedure and residents are provided with staff support to read and understand the procedure. The manager informed the inspector that staff would advocate on behalf of a resident making a complaint. The homes policies and procedures were viewed these include missing persons, reporting abuse, guidelines on witnessing or having suspicion of abuse, vulnerable adults, bullying, acceptance of gifts (staff from residents) and whistle blowing. All clearly explain staff roles and responsibilities with regards to the protection of residents at Amber Lodge. Three staff records viewed evidence that staff undertake a criminal records bureau check (CRB) prior to commencing work. Original CRB checks are stored in the homes head office for safekeeping; staff files hold a letter headed statement of a satisfactory CRB check including dates and CRB number.
Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 16 One resident record viewed included vulnerability issues regarding the resident’s contact with the opposite sex, the care plan viewed identifies methods of protecting the resident from potential abuse. One investigation had occurred in March 2005, this was recorded and investigated appropriately. CSCI and other required bodies were informed. The deputy manager confirmed that staff members are provided with protection of vulnerable adults training within the TOPSS (now skills for care) induction and foundation courses. Three staff records viewed show that staff are provided with various training with regards to the protection of residents. One staff record evidenced that they attended adult protection training and contribute to the protection of individuals through abuse training. One staff record show that they have attended ‘unisafe’ training. Discussion with the manager confirmed that restraint is used as a ‘last resort’, and staff work together to identify methods of preventing issues escalating. One resident record viewed contained an incident report form, which identified where a resident had been verbally abusive to a staff member. Outcomes were appropriate and acceptable; care plans identify actions required by staff in assisting the resident to modify their behaviours, and ‘triggers’ for this behaviour. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 17 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, 27, 28, 30 Residents can expect that they live in a homely, comfortable and safe environment and the home is clean and hygienic. A range of comfortable, safe and fully accessible shared space is provided both for shared activities and private use. EVIDENCE: The previous inspection identified that hot water in bathrooms was erratic and too hot in some rooms. The deputy manager confirmed that the maintenance worker had turned the temperature of the water down, one boiler was replaced in one half of the home, and a quote had been received for the boiler in the second half of the home. The water temperatures were checked during this inspection, in several shared bathrooms and it was found that, although the water temperature was erratic unsafe temperatures were not identified. The hot water in four bathrooms checked was 41, 40, 15 and 12 degrees centigrade. Shared bathrooms and toilets viewed were found to be sufficient in number, the majority of bedrooms also provided en suite facilities. There are bathrooms and shower rooms available for residents to use as they choose. Shared
Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 18 bathrooms and toilets provided hand wash gel, but also provided a hand towel, which may cause cross infection. The last inspection identified that there was a need for repair on the ceiling of the basement room, where drugs are stored. The ceiling has now been repaired. The last inspection identified that the stairs leading to the basement may be unsafe. The deputy manager stated that no residents use the stairs as it leads to the manager’s office and the medication storage area. The doors to the basement are locked in the evening when the residents are present at the home. A tour of the building was undertaken, shared spaces for residents use include a large comfortable lounge, a large dinning room, a large kitchen, garden and games room all on the ground floor and a large laundry room on the first floor. All shared areas were accessible to residents, clean, tidy, light and airy and provide attractive domestic furnishings. There were no unpleasant odours detected at the home, and there was a domestic staff observed to be cleaning the dining area during the tour of the building. The staff are provided with a sleeping in room, which is situated on the first floor of the home. The home is located close to local amenities including shops, public transport and a swimming baths. One resident was observed to be planning to walk to the local swimming baths at the time of the inspection. All residents living at Amber Lodge attend various local centres and clubs. The homes policies and procedures were viewed, and included control of infectious diseases, infection control, kitchen safety and nutrition and control if substances hazardous to health (COSHH), all of which identify safe methods of working. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 19 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): 31, 34, 36 Residents can expect that they benefit from the clarity of staff roles and responsibilities and from well supported and supervised staff team. Residents can expect that they will be supported and protected by the homes recruitment policy and practices. EVIDENCE: Three staff records were viewed, all evidenced that staff are provided with regular supervisions and appraisals. Supervision records viewed were recorded on a set format, indicating items for discussion, which included training needs, care plans, key work, statement of purpose, placement plans, stress, performance feedback and personal issues. All supervision records were signed and dated by the supervisor and supervisee. The deputy manager is currently undertaking all supervision meetings with staff in the absence of a manager. Three staff records viewed evidenced that the homes recruitment procedures are appropriate. Staff records included two written references, photograph and a copy of photographic identification, a copy of their birth certificate, terms and conditions and a copy of their application form, which includes all previous work roles. Evidence of Criminal records Bureau (CRB) checks were present, in the form of a letter headed document from head office indicating the date and number of the check. The deputy manager stated that all original CRB checks are stored in the homes head office.
Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 20 Staff job descriptions were viewed, these clearly identified their own and others roles and responsibilities. The homes policies and procedures were viewed, these included equal opportunities, disciplinary procedures, recruitment and selection, career development, sickness, terms and conditions of employment, and use of mobile telephone policy. All procedures have been regularly updated and clearly identify staff member’s roles and responsibilities of their employment. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 21 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): 40, 41 Residents can expect that their rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s policies and procedures and record keeping. EVIDENCE: The deputy manager is currently managing the home due to the departure of the registered manager in September 2005. The deputy manager stated that there has been an active attempt to fill the post; several advertisements have been posted in the local press, with some generated interest. The deputy manager is currently undertaking all management duties including all on call and supervision duties. The homes policies and procedures were viewed, and were signed and dated by the previous manager, and regularly updated. The deputy manager confirmed that the policies and procedures are accessible to all staff members, and any amendments are discussed in team meetings. The homes policies and procedures were found to be complete and up to date. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 22 Records viewed were found to be accurate, up to date and in good order. Staff and resident records are stored securely in the home. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 23 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 CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS Standard No 1 2 3 4 5 Score 3 X X X X Standard No 22 23 Score 3 3 ENVIRONMENT INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 Score 3 X X X 3 Standard No 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
STAFFING Score 3 X X 3 3 X 2 LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 3 12 X 13 3 14 3 15 3 16 3 17 Standard No 31 32 33 34 35 36 Score 3 X X 3 X 3 CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME X PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21
Amber Lodge Residential Home Score X X 3 X Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score X X X 3 3 X X DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 24 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 24 Regulation 23, 24 Requirement The registered person is required to address safe and consistent water temperatures in the home. This is a repeat requirement Timescale for action 30/11/05 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. 2. 3. Refer to Standard 1 30 37 Good Practice Recommendations The homes statement of purpose to be updated, removing the previous managers details Hand towels to be replaced in shared bathrooms with disposal towels. Management duties and responsibilities to be addressed by the employment of a manager. Amber Lodge Residential Home DS0000024325.V263812.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 25 Commission for Social Care Inspection Suffolk Area Office St Vincent House Cutler Street Ipswich Suffolk IP1 1UQ National Enquiry Line: 0845 015 0120 Email: enquiries@csci.gsi.gov.uk Web: www.csci.org.uk
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