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Inspection on 20/06/05 for Arden House

Also see our care home review for Arden House for more information

This inspection was carried out on 20th June 2005.

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 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

A friendly welcome is given on arrival at the home, and there is a calm and relaxed atmosphere, where mutual respect and consideration are constantly in evidence. The initial impression gained is that the home is well maintained and cared for, and that it is comfortable and secure. Arden House appears to be a happy home, and this is confirmed in conversation with residents. The needs of the residents are anticipated, and responded to appropriately. The individuality of each service user is recognised and the constant efforts of staff, to achieve the aims and objectives of the home, are commendable. The organisational skills of the management are excellent, as evidenced in the comprehensive documentation maintained in respect of service users, the staff and the environment. Good lines of communication ensure that everyone has the relevant information to enable appropriate decisions to be made.

What has improved since the last inspection?

What the care home could do better:

The Proprietor and Care Manager demonstrated their awareness of areas where improvements could be made, but they also had to acknowledge that much of what they would like to do is restricted by financial limitations. The activities programme is extensive, but community involvement would be even further increased were the funds available.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 ARDEN HOUSE 11 Roden Avenue Kidderminster Worcestershire DY10 2RF Lead Inspector Rachel McGorman Unannounced 20 June 2005 - 10:00 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 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 Stationary 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. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Arden House Address 11 Roden Avenue Kidderminster DY10 2RF Telephone number Fax number Email address Name of registered provider(s)/company (if applicable) Name of registered manager (if applicable) Type of registration No. of places registered (if applicable) 01562 744056 01562 864811 Mr Stephen Forester-Morgan Mrs Susan Forester-Morgan CRH 8 Learning Disability 8 Category(ies) of LD registration, with number of places ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: There are no additional conditions of registration Date of last inspection 17 December 2004 Brief Description of the Service: Arden House is a three storey semi-detached house situated in a quiet residential area, within easy walking distance of Kidderminster town centre. The stated aim of the home is to provide a family home environment, with a warm atmosphere, where each member of the group is encouraged to participate in the day to day running of the home. Arden House is registered to provide residential care for up to eight adults with a learning disability. The home is also registered for two people who may also have a physical disability and for two people who may also have mental health problems. The home is unable to offer accommodation for service users who are wheel chair dependent, and staff are not able to care for residents who have severely challenging behaviour.Whilst aiming to offer a home for life, Arden House is not registered to provide nursing care, should a resident’s health deteriorate. Mr Stephen Forester-Morgan is the registered proprietor of Arden House and his wife Susan is the registered care manager with day to day responsibility for running the home. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. The purpose of this routine, unannounced inspection was to follow up any previous requirements and recommendations, and to monitor the care provision in relation to the stated aims and objectives of the home. The inspection took approximately 5 hours and included spending time with residents, either in their own room or in the lounge. A sample of the care records were seen, and also the files of two members of staff. In addition, the records kept in respect of the maintenance of equipment, and safe working practices were checked. Time was also spent with the Proprietor and the care Manager, who were very helpful and cooperative throughout the inspection What the service does well: What has improved since the last inspection? There is an obvious commitment from the management of the home, to the ongoing improvement and development of the service. Progress has also been made recently in respect of the premises, in several areas, including: • New windows fitted throughout • New carpet laid in several rooms • A new temperature controlled bath installed, with a hydraulic lift • New curtains to the dining room windows • New nets to the front windows of the house • Redecoration of several parts of the premises ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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 Standards Statutory Requirements Identified During the Inspection ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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 standard(s) 1,2,4 & 5 Appropriate documentation is in place to enable prospective service users to make an informed decision about their future care needs. The admissions procedure is followed in detail, and all proposed admissions to the home are planned very thoroughly, over several weeks, to ensure an appropriate decision is made, both by the home and the service user. EVIDENCE: A Statement of purpose has been produced, which together with the Service Users Guide provides detailed information for residents and their families, on which to base decisions about their future care needs. The admission procedure includes extensive assessment by staff from the home, and a Community Care Assessment is undertaken by a social worker. A gradual introduction is made to the home following the initial referral, and a place is only offered if it seems likely that a suitable service can be provided for the prospective service user. Admission is agreed on a trial basis and an interim review of the placement undertaken after four weeks, followed by three-monthly reviews. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 9 A statement of terms and conditions of residence is provided for each service user. The details of these documents are discussed with each individual, and their family, and a signature obtained. A contract is provided for each service user by the placing authority. An Agreement of Care has also been produced, which includes a specific undertaking in relation to the principles of care and the rights of residents being upheld at Arden House, and also refers to the expectations placed on service users. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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 standard(s) 6,7,8 & 9 The service users plan of care is based on the initial assessment, which clearly identifies their assessed needs, and how these will be met. Service users at Arden House are supported in making choices in all areas of their lives, and risk management strategies enable a responsible approach to the risks associated with the various activities of daily living. EVIDENCE: Care planning procedures are well developed at Arden House with the initial assessment forming the basis of the on-going care plan. The Care Manager monitors changes over a period of time and amendments are made when necessary. Regular assessment is undertaken for each service user, and usually involves the day placements which they attend, together with family or a representative. Limitations are well documented and appear to be managed effectively. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 11 Risk assessments are also completed, in relation to the premises, activities undertaken, any restrictions imposed, and in respect of every aspect of the life of each service user. In addition, a F.I.E.L.D. (Focus In Epilepsy & Learning Disabilities) Risk Assessment has been completed when appropriate. Meetings with service users are held every 3 months. These are structured, with an agenda, and the minutes are recorded. This forum is also used by staff to consult service users formally on various aspects of running the home. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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 standard(s) 11,12,13,14 & 17 Arden House is run on the basis of mutual consideration, and the positive relationships between staff and service users demonstrate their obvious respect for each other. The extensive opportunities made available to service users enable them to live as fulfilling a life as possible. The well-documented views of service users are central to the delivery of the high standard of person centred care that is provided at the home. A choice of nutritious and wholesome meals are provided at the home, and at flexible times, to suit service users movements. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 13 EVIDENCE: The policy at Arden House is to enable service users to enjoy as ‘ordinary’ a life style as possible, by encouraging them to use the same facilities as other members of the community. The home offers educational and personal development opportunities, together with a wide range of leisure activities. Independence is encouraged, but within a framework of discreet support. The residents are enrolled at the local college and participate in various day and evening courses including cookery, agriculture, arts and crafts and they also have lessons in numeracy and literacy. In addition, some service users attend day centres and the Social Education Centre in Kidderminster, and two are involved with Lifestyles The involvement of service users in the local community depends on each individual and their personal choices, which are many and varied. Activities in-house are also extensive and can be undertaken individually, in small groups or with everyone participating. The dining table converts to a snooker table, which some residents say they very much enjoy playing. The home also has a piano, and one resident plays the guitar. Games and books are in evidence around the home. Holidays are an important part of life at Arden House, and involve everyone. In addition some residents have holidays with their family. Meal times are social occasions, with the main meal of the day being served in the early evening when service users return from college or their placements. The weekends are more flexible when service users can get up a little later and for those who wish, ‘brunch’ would be served mid-morning. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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 standard(s) Support and encouragement is provided to each service user, in order to promote independence in respect of their personal and healthcare needs. The health of each service user is consistently monitored, to ensure that their individual health care needs are appropriately met. Procedures are in place for managing the ageing process and possible illness and death of service users, to ensure that their dignity and respect is maintained. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 15 EVIDENCE: Personal care is provided at Arden House in a way that reflects the preferences of service users, with support from staff being sensitive and discreet, and details are recorded in the individual care plans. The healthcare needs of service users is closely monitored by care staff, and additional specialist support and advice is sought from the primary health care team, and other health professionals, form time to time. Health Action Plans have been implemented for all service users living at the home. The age range of service users extends over twenty five years, and staff at the home are able to demonstrate an awareness of the needs of the older members of the group. One service user was hospitalised for several months recently, and during this time he was intensively supported by staff, who described how difficult it was to ensure that the appropriate treatment was provided. He discussed his experiences during the inspection visit, and expressed his relief and delight at being back home. The management have shown an understanding of the issues relating to death and dying, following a fairly recent bereavement at the home, when appropriate support was provided to service users and staff. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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 standard(s) 22 & 23 A satisfactory complaints procedure is followed at the home, and service users are encouraged and enabled to express their views and opinions. The awareness of the management, together with the training provided for staff, ensures the protection of service users from all forms of abuse. EVIDENCE: A clear procedure for the investigation of complaints has been produced and any issues identified by service users are dealt with immediately. Discussions have been held with service users and their families regarding the process, and all complaints are recorded. A complaint had been made to the Environmental Health Service recently, by a neighbour, but there was no evidence found to support the allegations. A policy for the protection of service users from all forms of abuse was in place in the home, and a ‘Whistle Blowing’ procedure, in line with the ‘No Secrets’ document, produced by the Department of Health, had also been introduced. Some difficulties had been experienced previously with regard to service users finding a solicitor who would assist them to make a will, but further information has now been obtained to assist with this process. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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 standard(s) 24,26,28 & 30 The premises are very suitable for their purpose. They are comfortable and clean, and ensure as far as possible that the safety and wellbeing of service users is promoted. The location of the house is convenient to local services and facilities, and the layout provides adequate communal space for the needs of service users. The standard of the accommodation is excellent. The décor and furnishings are in good condition, and provide service users with an attractive and homely place to live. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 18 EVIDENCE: Arden House is a large and substantial building, providing accommodation on three floors. The premises has been extended and adapted for its present purpose, and provides a family environment for the people who live there. The building is maintained to a high standard and is in good decorative order. There is a rolling programme of redecoration to ensure that standards are maintained, and the proprietors are constantly endeavouring to improve facilities for the service users in their care. The bedrooms are all furnished to a high standard and many are equipped with tea making facilities. Most service users possess their own TV or Hi-Fi equipment, and many have personalised their bedrooms, which all meet the minimum size requirements. There is a spacious lounge for the use of service users and a smaller sitting room where smoking is permissible. The large dining room also contains a billiards table for the use and enjoyment of service users. The gardens have a lawned area surrounded by flowerbeds and a variety of shrubs. An abundance of lovely flowers from the gardens, are used throughout the house in beautiful arrangements. There is a patio complete with a mobile barbecue, which is regularly used in the summer. In addition a greenhouse and a potting shed are available to service users with ‘green fingers’, and a summerhouse and an aviary provide further interest. The standards of hygiene and cleanliness in the home are excellent, and bactericidal soap is available for hand washing. The laundry is well equipped and organized. There were no outstanding requirements following the recent visit of the Environmental Health Officer. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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 35 the key standard to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for standard(s) 31,32,34,35 & 36 The management support and supervision provided to staff, enable a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities, and ensure the promotion of the aims and objectives of the home. The recruitment policy and practices ensure that service users are supported and protected appropriately. The training provided to staff ensures that they are competent in their work and able to meet the assessed needs of service users living at the home. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 20 EVIDENCE: The proprietor, Stephen Forester-Morgan and his wife Susan, who is the Care Manager, take much of the responsibility for the care provision at the home. They are assisted by two care staff and a housekeeper. In addition, Mr. Colin Forester-Morgan, previously the Proprietor, maintains a supervisory and supportive role. The Proprietor and Care Home Manager, who both work full time at Arden House, have had considerable experience in caring for this client group, and are well qualified to perform their respective roles. The rotas indicate that staffing levels are being maintained at a satisfactory level, and this enables many planned activities to be undertaken with service users. Consideration is being given to further increasing the staffing establishment in response to the changing needs of service users. The staff files seen during the inspection confirmed that recruitment practices at Arden House are satisfactory, with two references being sought and previous employment history explored, prior to an appointment being made. The General Social Care Council’s Code of Conduct Practice has been implemented. The Learning Disability Award Framework accredited training has been introduced by the Care Manager, and she is hoping to become part of the West Midlands Consortium. The training needs of staff are regularly reviewed and monthly in-house training sessions are provided on work related subjects. A training record is maintained in respect of each member of staff. Staff development procedures have been introduced, with supervision sessions organised on a regular basis, and an annual appraisal undertaken with each member of staff. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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 39, and 42 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for standard(s) 37,38,39 & 42 The management arrangements at Arden House are satisfactory, and staff and service users benefit from the positive leadership they receive. Effective quality monitoring is in place, and the views of service users, their relatives, staff and other interested parties are sought and responded to appropriately. The health, safety and welfare of service users is promoted and protected in respect of all safe working practices. ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 22 EVIDENCE: The Care Manager, Susan Forester-Morgan has achieved the NVQ Level 4 qualification. She is also a NVQ Assessor and Verifier. In addition she has attended numerous care related training courses and ensures she is kept informed of the various developments relating to the care of people with a learning disability. The Proprietor, Stephen Forester-Morgan who works full time in the home, has many years experience working with this client group. He holds the Teaching of Mentally Handicapped Adults Diploma and has also undertaken management training. The Care Manager has excellent communication skills and a clear understanding of her role and responsibilities. Service users confirmed that they are encouraged to be involved in making decisions regarding the day-today arrangements within the home. The positive interactions observed between staff and service users were pleasing to observe. Arden House has achieved ISO 9002 accreditation in respect of its quality administration systems. Stephen Forester-Morgan is the named quality manager, and the most recent audit report of the review undertaken by QMS International PLC, indicates a high standard of performance in all areas. Further development of the system for monitoring the views of service users and their families has been undertaken and implemented. There were no outstanding requirements following the last visit from the fire safety officer. A health and safety policy is in place, appropriate records are maintained, and relevant training has been undertaken. Notifications are made to the Commission under Regulation 37, when necessary ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 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 3 3 4 3 Standard No 22 23 ENVIRONMENT Score 3 3 INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 LIFESTYLES Score 3 3 3 3 x Score Standard No 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 STAFFING Score 3 x 3 x 3 x 3 Standard No 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 3 3 4 4 x x 4 Standard No 31 32 33 34 35 36 Score 3 3 x 3 3 3 CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 ARDEN HOUSE Score 3 4 x 3 Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 4 3 3 x x 3 x E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 24 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 Regulation Requirement There were no requirements following this inspection 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 Good Practice Recommendations There were no recommendations following this inspection ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 25 Commission for Social Care Inspection The Coach House John Comyn Drive, Perdiswell Park Droitwich Road Worcester WR3 7NW 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 ARDEN HOUSE E52 S18492 Arden House V223537 200605.doc Version 1.30 Page 26 - 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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