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Inspection on 06/09/06 for Easter Field Court

Also see our care home review for Easter Field Court for more information

This inspection was carried out on 6th September 2006.

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 found no outstanding requirements from the previous inspection report, but made 1 statutory requirements (actions the home must comply with) as a result of this inspection.

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

Care planning is excellent. People are able to take risks as part of their chosen lifestyle. People can be part of the local community if they wish. Each person said that the food is lovely. Promoting good healthcare is excellent. There are constant improvements to each part of the buildings. Staff are good at their jobs and understand the individual needs of the people they care for and support. The Manager is good at her job and ensures that the service contributes to each person`s wellbeing and safety.

What has improved since the last inspection?

All previous requirements and recommendations have been met. Improvements to parts of the buildings have taken place.

What the care home could do better:

Some furniture could be replaced for the comfort of people living here. Electrical equipment tests must be carried out to promote safety.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Easter Field Court 1 - 5 Easter Field Court Morpeth Northumberland NE61 1JY Lead Inspector Bill Middlemist & Gill Best Key Unannounced Inspection 6th September 2006 10:00 Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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 Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Easter Field Court Address 1 - 5 Easter Field Court Morpeth Northumberland NE61 1JY 01670 - 395820 01670 395874 anne.joseph@nmht.nhs.uk 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) Newcastle, North Tyneside & Northumberland Mental Health NHS Trust Mrs A Joseph Care Home 17 Category(ies) of Mental Disorder, excluding learning disability or registration, with number dementia - over 65 years of age (17) of places Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: 1. 2. 3. 15 beds to be used flexibly for service users aged 54 and over. 1 bed currently approved for the use of a specified service user aged 44. NCSC must be notified in the event of this service user’s discharge. 1 bed specifically to be used for planned respite care. Date of last inspection 14th December 2005 Brief Description of the Service: Easter Field Court is located on the outskirts of Morpeth and comprises 5 purpose built bungalows set in attractive grounds, all of which are maintained by the Housing Association. There are places for 17 adults who have mental health problems. There are 4 bungalows in which people are able to live more independent lives, and the core bungalow that also houses the administrative office and assisted bathing facilities. All the bungalows have their own kitchens, but main meals are provided from the core bungalow kitchen. People are able to move freely between the bungalows and can travel into Morpeth independently or with the assistance of staff. The home has its own car. The basic weekly fees for this home are £548.98. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This was an unannounced inspection that lasted for five and a half hours. Two inspectors carried out the inspection. A selection of assessments and care plans were inspected to see if people’s needs and changing needs are being met. A number of residents were asked about their experience of living at Easterfield Court. A tour of the buildings took place to see if they are safe and comfortable. Records about health and safety were looked at to see if the wellbeing of people is being promoted. Staff were consulted about their work. The Manager was available throughout to help with the inspection. What the service does well: What has improved since the last inspection? All previous requirements and recommendations have been met. Improvements to parts of the buildings have taken place. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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 Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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): 2 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made from evidence gathered both during and before the visit to this service. Each person has had their needs assessed, and some assessments are ongoing so that people’s changing needs are addressed through care plans. EVIDENCE: Each person has an assessment or a range of assessments that have been carried out by a variety of professionals. These have enabled the Manager and staff to develop individual plans to meet individual needs. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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, 7, 9 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made from evidence gathered both during and before the visit to this service. Each person has an individual plan that includes their needs and changing needs. Each person gets the assistance they need to make decisions. Each person is supported to take risks as part of their preferred lifestyle. EVIDENCE: Three care plans were inspected to see if people are being offered choices, rights and independence. The care plans are excellent and have been developed with the person concerned, and include specific instructions for staff to support people in a way they prefer. Some people have agreed to restrictions as part of their support, and this is well recorded. The plans are reviewed at least every month to see if they are supporting the person effectively. The overall care and support for each person is systematically reviewed through the Care Programme Approach. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 10 The care plans also demonstrate how people are supported in making decisions in their everyday lives as well as long-term decisions. Each person can use the local advocacy service, User Voice if they want independent help with decisionmaking. The care plans are supported by risk assessment and risk management plans that balance people’s rights and preferred lifestyles with promoting safety. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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): 12, 13, 15, 16, 17 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made from evidence gathered both during and before the visit to this service. Each person is able to take part in activities that suits their lifestyle. People are supported to be part of their local community if they want to. Each person is supported to have appropriate relationships. Each person’s rights are promoted, and people take responsibilities at a level that suits them. Each person is offered a healthy diet. EVIDENCE: On the day of this inspection a number of people were taking part in activities both within and outside of the home. Some people were at a day centre while others were in supported employment. Another person was busy carrying out Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 12 jobs around the site, and some were busy with domestic chores. Some people chose to relax and watch television. Most people use what the local community offers such as local shops, pubs, churches, sports centres and places of interest. People are encouraged to maintain relationships with friends and family in a way that promotes diversity and safety. The main meal of the day is offered around 4 pm. There are always alternatives if someone does not want to eat what is available. There are cooking facilities available in each bungalow so people can enjoy snacks when they want, or cook their meals independently. The kitchen is well stocked with good quality provisions. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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 the following standard(s): 18, 19, 20 Quality in this outcome area is excellent. This judgement has been made from evidence gathered both during and before the visit to this service. Each person gets the support they need in a way that suits them. Each person’s physical health needs are being met and emotional health needs are carefully considered. The way the home deals with medication promotes protection for the people who live here. EVIDENCE: All personal support is provided in private. There are no restrictions regarding times for going to bed and getting up other than for scheduled activities and routines. There was evidence that people are encouraged to choose their own clothes and to take care of their appearance. People’s healthcare needs are met through the home’s systems making sure that they get to the right kind of help at the time that they need it. People are able to see their GP or other healthcare professionals on their own if they wish, and steps have been taken to share information on a need to know basis, or in Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 14 line with the home’s duty of care. The home is excellent at monitoring people’s conditions and making referrals to specialists before potential complications develop. The Trust now has a draft smoking cessation policy to support those who want to stop smoking. There is an atmosphere of low-level emotional responses from staff that contributes to people’s mental wellbeing. The combined approach to care planning and the way staff work with each person promotes positive mental health. Each person has chosen not to take their own medication, and depend on staff to administer medication in line with the home’s medication policy and procedure. Records were examined and a spot check made on a limited number medications: all those inspected were in order. There was evidence that staff have received the right training in order to deal with medication. All medication was stored in line with pharmacy guidelines. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made from evidence gathered both during and before the visit to this service. Each person’s views are listened to and acted on. Each person is protected from abuse and neglect. EVIDENCE: Each person that was consulted knew who to make a complaint to should the need arise, and two added that they know things will change if they have something to say. The home has a clear complaints procedure: no complaints have been made. The home has demonstrated that the protection of each person is properly considered and balanced with rights and choices. Protecting adults is an essential part of staff training. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 16 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, 30 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made from evidence gathered both during and before the visit to this service. Easterfield Court provides a homely and comfortable place to live. The home is kept clean and hygienic. EVIDENCE: The Manager and staff work hard to maintain the well used buildings. There is a constant programme of repairs and decoration. Any urgent repairs that affect health and safety are carried within 24 hours. The sofa and chairs in the sitting room next to the office is looking worn and should be recovered. Everywhere that was inspected was clean and hygienic. The home has demonstrated that it follows the right hygiene procedures at all times. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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 32, 34 and 35 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 32, 24, 35 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made from evidence gathered both during and before the visit to this service. Each person benefits from competent and qualified staff. The Trust’s recruitment procedures are protecting the people that live at Easterfield Court. Staff get the training they need to do their jobs, and further training is scheduled. EVIDENCE: Most of the staff at Easterfield Court have worked there since the home opened and know each resident very well. Staff work with care plans to deliver care and support in a way that promotes consistency. Staff were observed working with a number of people throughout the inspection, and displayed courtesy and respect to each person. Two people said that the best thing about the home is “the staff and how they help you”. The Manager makes an annual audit of training needs, to ensure that members of staff continually update their skills and competencies. Staff have all the Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 18 training required by law, as well as training directly relating to the work they do with people at the home. Staffing levels are now stable following a short period of being short staffed. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 19 Conduct and Management of the Home The intended outcomes for Standards 37 – 43 are: 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. Service users benefit from a well run home. Service users benefit from the ethos, leadership and management approach of the home. Service users are confident their views underpin all self-monitoring, review and development by the home. Service users’ rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s policies and procedures. Service users’ rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s record keeping policies and procedures. The health, safety and welfare of service users are promoted and protected. Service users benefit from competent and accountable management of the service. The Commission considers Standards 37, 39, and 42 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 37, 39, 42 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made from evidence gathered both during and before the visit to this service. The way the home is managed benefits each person. Quality assurance systems are based on people’s experience of the service. The health, safety and welfare of each person is promoted. EVIDENCE: The Manager’s skills, knowledge and experience ensures that Easterfield Court is well run and that systems are in place to ensure continued good practice is carried out, and good outcomes are achieved for each person. Quality assurance systems have been developed and are used to gain people’s views of the service they receive. The home receives an unannounced monthly visit from a Locality Manager where quality matters are inspected. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 20 All other matters relating to the health and safety that were inspected were satisfactory, apart from on area. Electrical equipment has not been PAT tested in line with safety guidelines. This does not bring down the overall rating for promoting health and safety. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 SCORING OF OUTCOMES This page summarises the assessment of the extent to which the National Minimum Standards for Care Homes for Adults 18-65 have been met and uses the following scale. The scale ranges from: 4 Standard Exceeded 2 Standard Almost Met (Commendable) (Minor Shortfalls) 3 Standard Met 1 Standard Not Met (No Shortfalls) (Major Shortfalls) “X” in the standard met box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion “N/A” in the standard met box denotes standard not applicable CHOICE OF HOME Standard No Score 1 X 2 3 3 X 4 X 5 X INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 Score CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS Standard No Score 22 3 23 3 ENVIRONMENT Standard No Score 24 3 25 X 26 X 27 X 28 X 29 X 30 3 STAFFING Standard No Score 31 X 32 3 33 X 34 3 35 3 36 X CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 4 3 X 3 X LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 X 12 3 13 3 14 X 15 3 16 3 17 3 PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Score 3 4 3 X X 3 3 X X 3 X Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 22 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 YA42 Regulation 13 Requirement All electrical equipment must be PAT tested. Timescale for action 30/09/06 RECOMMENDATIONS These recommendations relate to National Minimum Standards and are seen as good practice for the Registered Provider/s to consider carrying out. No. 1. Refer to Standard YA24 Good Practice Recommendations The suite in the living room next to the office should be recovered or replaced. Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 23 Commission for Social Care Inspection Cramlington Area Office Northumbria House Manor Walks Cramlington Northumberland NE23 6UR 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 Easter Field Court DS0000000515.V296312.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 24 - 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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