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Inspection on 27/07/05 for Blisworth Close (Royal Mencap Society)

Also see our care home review for Blisworth Close (Royal Mencap Society) for more information

This inspection was carried out on 27th July 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

The statement of purpose and service user guide provides good information to make an informed choice about the home. All service users needs are assessed and there are clear care plans. The staff showed a sound knowledge of their needs. A family member commented that `The care and attention of the staff is excellent` The home provides individual ensuite rooms that are personalised. The home has specially adapted bathrooms to compliment individual facilities. Communal space enables service users opportunities to spend time together. The home has secure outside gardens where service users can enjoy time with family, friends and staff. Service users all liked living at the home, they feel well cared for and safe. Service users views are listened to and acted upon appropriately by staff.

What has improved since the last inspection?

The complaints policy has been reviewed and contains all relevant information to inform service users that they contact the Commission for Social Care Inspection at ant time during the complaint process. The policy is now in an accessible format for service users.

What the care home could do better:

The home needs to review their policies and procedures in relation to the disposal of hazardous waste and testing for Legionella bacteria presence. The registered manager was advised to seek advice from the local environmental health officer.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Blisworth Close 1 Blisworth Close Northampton Northants NN4 8ND Lead Inspector Judith Roan Unannounced 27 July 2005 08:30 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. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Blisworth Close Address 1 Blisworth Close Northampton NN4 8ND 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) 01604 676066 01604 676066 Royal Mencap Society Mrs Sharon Theresa McKinney Care Home 6 Category(ies) of LD Learning disability x 6 registration, with number of places Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Age range is 18 years - 65 years. Date of last inspection 28-Feb-2005 Brief Description of the Service: Blisworth Close is a care home providing personal care and accommodation for 6 younger adults with a learning disability.The Premises are owned by a housing association with each service user having a tenancy agreement. Mencap provides the care service.The home is purpose built and is located on a new housing development on the outskirts of Northampton.The home is two storey with four bedrooms located on the ground floor. All of the bedrooms are single with en-suite facilities. There is a well-maintained and enclosed garden with water features and raised flower borders. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. The focus of inspections undertaken by the Commission of Social Care Inspection is upon the outcomes for Service Users and their views of the service provided. The primary method of inspection used was ‘case tracking’ which involved selecting 2 residents and tracking the care they receive through review of their records, discussion with them, the care staff and observation of care practices. The inspector also met with service users after they had returned home from various day activities. The commission had received a pre-inspection questionnaire from the Registered Manager and comment cards have been received from service users and family members. The inspection took place during the morning and late afternoon, over a period of 3.5 hours and was carried out on an unannounced basis. The inspector would like to thank all service users and staff met during the inspection for their contribution to the inspection. What the service does well: The statement of purpose and service user guide provides good information to make an informed choice about the home. All service users needs are assessed and there are clear care plans. The staff showed a sound knowledge of their needs. A family member commented that ‘The care and attention of the staff is excellent’ The home provides individual ensuite rooms that are personalised. The home has specially adapted bathrooms to compliment individual facilities. Communal space enables service users opportunities to spend time together. The home has secure outside gardens where service users can enjoy time with family, friends and staff. Service users all liked living at the home, they feel well cared for and safe. Service users views are listened to and acted upon appropriately by staff. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 6 What has improved since the last inspection? What they could do better: Please contact the provider for advice of actions taken in response to this inspection. The report of this inspection is available from enquiries@csci.gsi.gov.uk or by contacting your local CSCI office. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 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 Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 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) 1,2,3,4,5 The information available to service users and their representatives enable them to make an informed choice about the service. EVIDENCE: The home has clear information within the Statement of Purpose and Service Users Guide. The manager is presently considering an accessible format to aide service users understanding. Files contained assessments of need that were originally undertaken when service users were admitted. There have been no new admissions since the last inspection. In discussion with the Registered manager and information in the Statement of Purpose the admissions procedure into the home would include a full assessment of needs and several trial visits. Files viewed contained individual service agreements with service users. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 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 standard(s) 6,7,8.9.10 Care practices within the home ensure that service users are consulted & fully involved within the assessment process. Service users can be reassured that information about them is kept confidential. Risk assessments support service users to maximise life experiences. EVIDENCE: Case files viewed demonstrated that service users are clearly involved in drawing up their care plan and with decisions about them. In discussion with service users and staff it was confirmed that there is ongoing reviews of care needs. Some service users said that they would like to be more involved in decision making within the home. Case files contained risk assessments for individual activities undertaken. These were clear and staff fully understood the necessity to undertake assessment of risk and to monitor changes. All service users main files are kept secure within the office/sleep in room. A second set of working care plans available for support workers are kept in a locked cupboard in the dining room. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 10 Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 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 standard(s) 11,12,13,15,16 Opportunities for service users to develop, be involved within the community and to have access to a range of activities of their choice are varied and made available. Positive support is provided to service users to maintain contact with family and friends. EVIDENCE: The inspector was able to discuss with service users how they choose to spend their day. One service users was waiting to be go to a day activity at the start of the inspection, others had already left for the day. The inspector therefore decided to return later in the day to meet with other service users. Several were happy to inform the inspector about there activities when they go to a day centre. Another spoke about their decision to reduce their days out so that they could rest. It was evident from the files that this decision had been discussed and was part of meeting the individuals’ needs as they matured. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 12 The inspector was satisfied that service users were given opportunities to develop as part of an going plan of care. All of the service users had moved to Blisworth Close as part of the organisations plans to develop the facilities for service users. The home has room to develop additional space on the first floor into an activities and games area for service users. Service users have been involved in its planning and several spoken with said that they were looking forward to using the area. All service users had plans for holidays this year. Decisions about group activities are either decided about during one of their regular meetings or over the dining table sharing a meal. All service users take the evening meal together and other meals are taken as required fitting in with their programme of activities. Comments made by service users in the comment cards and in discussion with individuals evidence that service user are respected by staff and that their right to choose is supported. The home presented with a very relaxed and happy atmosphere. Comments made by relatives include ‘ I am always extremely pleased’ and that relatives are kept informed. Standard 17 was not fully assessed but from service users returned comment cards most service enjoyed the choice of food within the home. Service users are fully involved with menu planning, shopping and preparation of meals. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 13 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) 18,19 Service users choose how and when personal support is provided. Good links to external health care professionals and support within the home ensure that physical & emotional health care needs are met. EVIDENCE: Service users spoken with confirmed that their daily routines are discussed and agreed with support staff. Files viewed state service users preferences on how they liked to be cared for. The surveys from service users confirmed this as well. All personal care is delivered in the privacy of service users rooms and that staff were mindful of this right. Records demonstrated that health care needs are acted upon and that several service users had ongoing support from health care professionals. Evidence was seen that appropriate intervention is taken to meet health care needs. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 14 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 Effective management of the complaints policy & procedures protects Service users. EVIDENCE: Service users were able to confirm when spoken with and by the responses made on the comment cards that they knew who to share their concerns with. The complaints policy & procedure is now produced in a format more accessible by service users. A relative commented that ‘ I am pleased that if I inform staff in writing about a concern then it is acted upon.’ Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 15 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) 24,25,26,27,28 29,30 The homes environment is fit for purpose and provides a range of communal options for service users to choose from EVIDENCE: Service users have individual bedrooms that have been decorated and arranged to the service users own preferences. Bedrooms enable service users to spend some of their leisure time on activities of their choice. All bedrooms have an ensuite toilet and wash hand basin that is complimented by specially adapted wet room/bathrooms. The home is decorated to a high standard and reflects the service users involvement of colour scheme. The communal space available enables service users to spend time on group activities. An additional games room is being planned on the first floor where there is a large room that mirrors the space already available. The shared kitchen is fitted with variable height work surfaces that have encouraged service user who uses a wheelchair to join in meal preparations. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 16 Externally the grounds provide a secure garden area that has been landscaped by service users and staff. One service has created a colourful and well-tended area of flowers that he was very proud of. The garden had recently been used for a bar-b-que that friends and families joined in with. The home was found to be clean, tidy and free from offensive odours. Service users living at the home are supported to take an active part in maintaining the home. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 17 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) 31,33 Service users benefit from a consistent staff team who are clear about their role and work as an effective team. EVIDENCE: Support workers were clear about what was expected of them and had worked with the manager to ensure that service users are met. They were fully conversant with the needs of service users and demonstrated that they had a positive approach. Service users also benefit from rota shortfalls are covered by staff within the team. Support workers were able to confirm that they had attended a range of training course to enable them to meet the needs of service users. The preinspection questionnaire confirms that 3 support workers have achieved at least NVQ level two in care. All staff at the home are trained in first aid. The inspector was not able to check on support workers files, as the manager was not available later in the day so this standard was not fully assessed. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 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 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) 37,42 The home policies, procedures and work practices in relation to health and safety protect service users EVIDENCE: The home is managed well and this is commented upon by a relative’ It seems a very well run and happy home’. The home undertakes regular checks on the gas central heating and electrical appliances at the home. The inspected noted that appropriate health & safety information was displayed around the home and there is the necessary insurance cover. The inspector advised the Registered manager to take advice on the checking of water temperatures for legionella bacteria presence. Staff all confirmed that they had completed the necessary training in respect of food hygiene, manual handling environmental safety, fire safety, medication and first aid. The home was free from hazards and the inspected noted that Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 19 external safety barriers had been installed to protect service users from the road when using the front door. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 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 3 3 3 3 Standard No 22 23 ENVIRONMENT Score 3 x INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 LIFESTYLES Score 3 3 3 3 3 Score Standard No 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 STAFFING Score 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Standard No 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 x 3 3 x 3 3 x Standard No 31 32 33 34 35 36 Score 3 x 3 x x x CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Blisworth Close Score 3 3 x x Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 3 x x x x 3 x C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 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. 1. 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 42 Good Practice Recommendations The Registered manager needs to seek advice on the diposal of hazardous waste from the home and checks needed for Legionella bacetertia from the Environmental health Officer. Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 22 Commission for Social Care Inspection 1st Floor Newland House Campbell Square Northampton NN1 3EB 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 Blisworth Close C51 C08 S12713 Blisworth Close V240371 270705 stage 41.doc Version 1.40 Page 23 - 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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