Inspection on 23/02/06 for Elmwood

This inspection was carried out on 23rd February 2006.

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.

Other inspections for this house

Elmwood 17/08/06

Elmwood 07/06/05

Elmwood 24/03/05

Elmwood 08/07/04

Elmwood 24/03/04

Elmwood 16/07/02

Similar services:

Thorndene

Insight - Eastchurch

Southfields

Magenta

Seabourne House

33 St John`s Church Road

Dovedale Court

Lyncol House

Extracts from inspection reports are licensed from CQC, this page was updated on 08/07/2008.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Elmwood 221 Loose Road Maidstone Kent ME15 7DR Lead Inspector Ann Block Unannounced Inspection 23 February 2006 16:20 Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.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 Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.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. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Elmwood Address 221 Loose Road Maidstone Kent ME15 7DR 01622 751894 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) maria.davis@tiscali.co.uk Mrs Maria Eliza Davis Mrs Maria Eliza Davis Care Home 6 Category(ies) of Learning disability (6) registration, with number of places Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection 7th June 2005 Brief Description of the Service: Elmwood is located on one of the main roads into Maidstone, some two miles from the town centre. The nearest shops and other public amenities are within walking distance of the home. There is car parking to the front and side of the house. Buses pass close by. The house is a detached property with all bedrooms for single occupancy. Residents are accommodated on the ground floor, the first floor being the office and owners private accommodation. There is a large garden to the rear of the property which residents can use including a patio, lawn, vegetable area and fishpond. According to its statement of purpose, Elmwood provides a secure, homely environment where a small group of 6 adults with learning disabilities can live happily on a long term basis. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This unannounced inspection took place between 16.20 pm and 18.35 pm with the inspector made welcome. All the residents were at home having returned from their day activities. Staff and residents made the inspector welcome, two showed the inspector their rooms. The residents chatted about their day, news about the home, what they had been doing and what they felt about living at Elmwood. Thorough previous inspections the service has consistently evidenced excellent standards of care and support for people with a learning disability. This short inspection focused entirely on conversation and observation, all relevant standards having been assessed at the inspection of 7 June 2005. To gain a more detailed recorded assessment of the service, it is recommended that the report from that inspection be read in conjunction with this report. Throughout the inspection, there was an inclusive atmosphere, with the residents comfortable and relaxed. Residents and staff know each other very well and are respected as individuals in a small group setting. That each resident receives excellent care and support was again well evidenced. What the service does well: The service demonstrates how a small home for people with learning disabilities should be run. The home is very well managed with an owner and staff who put the wellbeing of residents first and foremost. Admission processes are exemplary. Residents take a full part in the community, have many opportunities to meet with friends, make new ones and invite people back to the house. There are many opportunities for recreation and education, including holidays and day services. Residents feel safe and protected from risks of harm. Residents like living in the house which they are able to treat as their own. They have a safe, well maintained and well decorated home with rooms they personalise to their taste. Residents have the support of staff who listen to them. Residents like the staff and are involved in staff selection. Residents are fully involved in the inspection process. They have input into how the service is organised. They are consulted about all aspects of their lives. There were no requirements or recommendations from this inspection which reflects the high standards in place. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.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 Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.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): 1,2,3 & 4 The excellent processes of admission provide a gentle transfer into residential care. EVIDENCE: Following a period with a stable resident group, the aim for one resident to move to more independent living came about, leaving a vacancy in the home. Through recommendation, an application was made on behalf of a person then living with parents. The person was already known to many of the residents, as she goes to the same day service. From speaking with the owner and residents, the process of moving in was carried out with exceptional care and consideration for the prospective resident, family and existing residents. The prospective resident had visited the home for increasing lengths of time, including additional unfunded overnight and weekend stays. The existing resident group confirmed they were asked for their opinions. Staff also had an input into overall suitability of the placement and whether the resident would benefit from life at Elmwood. The owner spoke of getting as much information as possible from other sources including family, care management and professionals. Whilst it would not be appropriate for this resident to use printed information about the home, such information is readily available and comprehensive. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.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): 7,9 & 10 Residents enjoy a good quality of life where they can be the decision makers. EVIDENCE: Whilst actual care plans were not inspected, the last report recorded explicit documentation in place with residents fully consulted. From conversation at this inspection, residents enjoy a high standard of care and support in a manner which meets individual needs. They are encouraged to make decisions about their lives. Staff ensure that suitable communication systems are used, combining effective communication with knowledge and understanding of each resident. Each client takes as much control as possible over their own finances. One explained the process, how her money was paid directly into an account with the Post Office, how she paid her bills from that, how she budgeted and what support she was given. Each resident leads a busy life, which present challenges, risks and the opportunity to make mistakes. Residents know their limitations regarding risk taking and were pleased to have the support of the service when developing greater independence. A former resident still benefits from this ‘safety net’. Residents assured the inspector that information about them wasnt shared without their permission. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.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): 11,12,13,14,15,16 & 17 Residents lead full and active lives. EVIDENCE: Residents have the opportunity to fill their days with activities they enjoy and which develops their personal, social and emotional skills. Activities are offered to include specific therapies, work situations, educational opportunities and practical living skills. A range of resources is used, including in house provision through the activities coordinator and craft room. A resident spoke of her work placements, including a work exchange programme. Others spoke of college courses including pottery. Many examples of pottery made by residents were in use and displayed around the house. Residents are fully consulted about their day resulting in very individual programmes of activities. The programmes recorded an excellent balance between time for relaxation and more structured activities. Residents have specific chores around the house which they recognise as part of ‘family’ life. The weekly schedule gives plenty of opportunities to maintain contact with families and friends. This can include visits to and from families, asking friends over for a meal and the opportunity to make new friends for example at a local disco. One resident Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 11 spoke about her latest boyfriend, valentines day cards were in evidence. Residents have booked to go on holiday to the Isle of Wight. The owner had made a preliminary visit and brought back lots of information and photos for residents to finally choose whether they wanted to go there. The inspection took place on menu planning day. Residents plan the following weeks menu, the main shopping is done twice a week. Residents said how they helped with the shopping, food preparation and serving. Those taking a packed lunch the following day were being supported to make their own sandwiches. Residents said they liked the food they had and were looking forward to the evening meal of pasta bake. Drinks, fresh fruit and healthy foods are promoted. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.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 & 19 Residents health and care needs are very well managed and take into account service users individual preferences and needs. EVIDENCE: Levels of personal care needs vary. The last inspection recorded that this individuality was clearly recorded in care plans. Staff understand these differing needs, residents were prompted to maintain good standards of presentation and self care. Residents also recognise each other’s needs and are supportive. Residents know that certain ‘rules’ need to be followed if they are going to day services or have appointments, other than that they felt that times were flexible. Whilst meal times are taken together, the actual times will depend on what residents are doing that day. A resident said she could choose when she had her bath and spoke of the reasons why she chose certain days to wash her hair. Residents choose their own clothes, often using the shops in Maidstone and having coffee or lunch out. Part of the settling in process for the recently admitted resident was to get to know her preferred routines. Specialist and professional input is used as necessary. Health care is very well managed with appointments made as required. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.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): Not assessed EVIDENCE: These standards were met in full at the last inspection. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.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): 24,25,26,27,28,29 & 30 Residents enjoy living at Elmwood which is safe, well decorated, properly maintained and homely. EVIDENCE: Elmwood is a domestic property in an area with similar type houses. The house is well maintained and spacious with a large garden. Each resident has their own bedroom which they personalise. A number have been recently redecorated and one is shortly to be redecorated and refurnished. The owner continually reviews areas which may need updating. A resident spoke of planned shopping trips to get a new bed and bedroom furniture. One resident said his choice of room colour was green, another had chosen lilac. Residents discussed their choice of carpets for their rooms. Those needing physical assistance have mobility and personal aids, such as grab rails, provided as assessed. Toilet and bath facilities are located close to bedrooms and day space. The kitchen has recently been completely refurbished to a high standard. Residents said whilst they liked the old kitchen this was much nicer to use. Residents are free to use all communal areas but recognise bedrooms are private, each being able to lock their bedroom if they choose. A separate laundry room is provided. Residents are able to help with their laundry and take pride in the care of their clothes. They take part in looking after their Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 15 rooms and respect the presentation of the house. Discussion took place around the table about replacing the tiles in the dining room and how this could be modernised. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.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): Not assessed EVIDENCE: Staff have a style of supervision contract in their staff handbook. The recruitment policy has been updated to reflect the good practice in use. Residents like the staff who work with them and are involved in the recruitment of new staff as is taking place at present. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 17 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): Not assessed EVIDENCE: The last inspection recorded excellent management with current and responsive servicing and maintenance of equipment and supplies. Indicators at this inspection were that residents live in a safe environment. Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 18 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 x Standard No 22 23 Score x x ENVIRONMENT INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 Score x 3 x 3 3 Standard No 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 STAFFING Score 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 4 12 4 13 4 14 4 15 4 16 4 17 Standard No 31 32 33 34 35 36 Score x x x x x x CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME 4 PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Elmwood Score 4 3 x x Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score x x x x x x x DS0000023930.V250374.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 19 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 Elmwood DS0000023930.V250374.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 20 Commission for Social Care Inspection Maidstone Local Office The Oast Hermitage Court Hermitage Lane Maidstone ME16 9NT 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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