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Inspection on 24/11/05 for Arden House

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

This inspection was carried out on 24th November 2005.

CSCI has not published a star rating for this report, though using similar criteria we estimate that the report is Excellent. 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 is 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 R McGorman Unannounced Inspection 24th November 2005 10:00 Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.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 Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.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. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Arden House Address 11 Roden Avenue Kidderminster Worcestershire DY10 2RF 01562 744056 01562 864811 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) Mr Stephen Forester-Morgan Mrs Susan Forester-Morgan Care Home 8 Category(ies) of Learning disability (8) registration, with number of places Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: 1. 2. This service is primarily for people with a learning disability. It may also cater for 2 named people with an additional physical disability and 2 named people with an additional mental disorder 20th June 2005 Date of last inspection 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 residents 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 DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 3 hours and included spending time with residents, and the management of the home. A sample of the care records were seen, and also staff files. In addition, the records kept in respect of the maintenance of equipment, and safe working practices were checked. What the service 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 is 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. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 6 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 carpet laid in several a lounge New equipment i.e. televisions replaced New furniture – a bed and specialised chair Redecoration of the shower and bathroom Staffing levels have been increased, which is of benefit to service users. 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 DS0000018492.V261887.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 Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.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&3 Appropriate documentation is in place to enable prospective service users to make an informed decision about their future care needs. Thorough assessment is undertaken prior to admission to ensure that the needs of the service user can be effectively met. 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. Staff are able to demonstrate their ability to meet the assessed needs of service users. Evidence is found in the assessments and care plans, the training that is provided for staff, and also in the observations of the interactions between service users and staff. Specialist services are accessed when needed, and advocacy support is also provided. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.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 The service users plan of care is based on the initial assessment, which clearly identifies their assessed needs, and how these will be met. The policy on Confidentiality reassures service users that information about them is handled appropriately. 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. Details relating to confidentiality are included in the contract and discussions with individual service users and their families are held. All staff are made aware of the principles relating to confidentiality. The policy on confidentiality had been developed to include partner agencies. A copy has been provided to the local College, to the Social Education Centre attended by the service users, and also to the Commission. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 10 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): 14,15 & 16 The opportunities made available to service users, and their regular involvement with family and friends, enables them to live as fulfilling a life as possible. The manner in which support is provided by staff ensures that the rights of service users are respected and their independence is promoted. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 11 EVIDENCE: Service users living at the home are encouraged to follow an ‘ordinary’ life style as far as possible, by using the same facilities as other members of the community, and being involved in a range of leisure activities. The home positively encourages contact between service users and their families and friends, many of whom are very supportive to the home. Comments from families and representatives of service users are extremely positive, and include the following: • Staff are caring and helpful • We couldn’t wish for a better place for our son to live • Everything that my brother wants and needs • I wouldn’t mind moving in myself • The food is excellent • This is the most caring place • Staff are totally dedicated • Everyone has an excellent quality of life Visitors are made very welcome and service users are assisted to make visits to the homes of their friends, and to invite them to Arden House. There is evidence that Arden House is run on the basis of mutual consideration, and house rules are minimal. Comments made by staff and service users indicate respect for each other. Keys to bedroom doors are available if service users wish to have them. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 12 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 & 20 Support and encouragement is provided to each service user, in order to promote independence in respect of their personal and healthcare needs. Arrangements for the safe administration of medication are in place at the home. EVIDENCE: The personal and healthcare needs of service users are closely monitored by care staff, and additional specialist support and advice is sought from the primary health care team, and other health professionals, when necessary. The provision of care provided at Arden House reflects the preferences of service users, with support from staff being sensitive and discreet. A monitored dosage system for the administration of medication is in use at the home. The pharmacist visits every three months to check the process and to offer advice and support when required. Training is provided for staff. The medication procedure was discussed in detail, and includes the use of homely remedies. A regular review of each service users medication is undertaken regularly. Arrangements for the disposal of medication were also checked, and these are satisfactory. There are no controlled drugs being prescribed at present. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 13 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 A satisfactory complaints procedure is in place at the home, and enables everyone to express any concerns, views, opinions, and compliments. EVIDENCE: These standards were not inspected in detail, but were met previously. A clear procedure for the investigation of complaints has been produced and any issues are dealt with immediately. There have been no complaints to the home, since the last inspection. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 14 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): 24,25,27 & 29 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 DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 15 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 constantly endeavour to improve facilities for the service users in their care. A new carpet has been fitted in the top lounge, and the 2 communal televisions have been replaced. A new bed has been provided for one service user, and a specialist chair purchased for a service user with special needs. Re-decoration has been undertaken in both the bathroom and shower. 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 bedroom. Four service users are accommodated in single bedrooms, one of these being located on the ground floor. The two remaining bedrooms have shared occupancy, although all the bedrooms exceed the minimum space requirements. There is a bathroom and a shower, both with toilet facilities and 2 separate toilets, appropriately situated within the home. A top of the range bath has been fitted, which is temperature controlled and also has a hydraulic lift, to assist service users who may have a physical disability. There are no outstanding requirements following a visit from the Environmental Health Officer earlier in the year. The home has not received a recent visit from the Fire Safety Officer. The Fire Log Book was seen, and the appropriate checks have been undertaken with the required frequency. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 16 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): 31,33 & 35 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 DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 17 EVIDENCE: The proprietor, Stephen Forester-Morgan and his wife Susan, who is the Registered Care Manager, take much of the responsibility for the care provision at the home, and they are now assisted by 3 care staff and a housekeeper. In addition, Mr. Colin Forester-Morgan, previously the Proprietor, maintains a supervisory and supportive role. 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. There has been a recent increase in 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 Learning Disability Award Framework accredited training has been introduced by the Care Manager. 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. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 18 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): 37,40,41 & 43 The management arrangements at Arden House are satisfactory, and staff and service users benefit from the positive leadership they receive. The policies and procedures, and records maintained at the home, comply with legislative requirements and therefore help to safeguard the rights of service users. The high standards maintained in the management of the business help to ensure that it is effective and financially viable, with obvious benefits to service users and staff. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 19 EVIDENCE: The Proprietor and Care Home Manager, who both work full time at Arden House, have considerable experience in caring for this client group, and are well qualified to perform their respective roles. 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, 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 policies and procedures implemented at Arden House, are reviewed and updated regularly. The contents of all documents are discussed with service users and staff, to ensure their understanding. The opinions and views of service users are said to be valued and are taken into consideration when amending and developing policies. Records are maintained to a satisfactory standard at the home. They are up to date, extensive and in good order. Service users are aware that they can access their records, and they are also involved in their development. The financial viability of the business was confirmed by the Proprietor, and an annual forecast is also produced. Insurance cover to the appropriate level is maintained, and the certificate is available for inspection. Service users are not involved in these management issues but are made aware of any relevant information. Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 20 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 3 X X Standard No 22 23 Score 3 X 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 3 X 3 X 3 X LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 X 12 X 13 X 14 3 15 4 16 3 17 Standard No 31 32 33 34 35 36 Score 3 X 3 X 3 X CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME X PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Arden House Score 4 X 3 X Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 4 X X 3 3 X 3 DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 21 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. Refer to Standard Good Practice Recommendations Arden House DS0000018492.V261887.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 22 Commission for Social Care Inspection Worcester Local Office 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. 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