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Inspection on 13/12/05 for Highfield Farm

Also see our care home review for Highfield Farm for more information

This inspection was carried out on 13th December 2005.

CSCI has not published a star rating for this report, though using similar criteria we estimate that the report is Adequate. 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 6 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

Staff were alerted about a missing resident during the inspection. The staff team took immediate action; they were calm, confident and organised in carrying out the missing person procedure. The resident returned safely and staff greeted the resident in an appropriate and dignified manner. The home is commended for this action. Residents were relaxed and happy at the home and had active and positive life styles. They were encouraged to be independent, and staff recognised and praised the residents for their achievements. Staff dealt with difficult situations professionally and sensitively. Residents` had their needs regularly assessed by the home and care plans were reviewed and up to date. The information in the care plans was relevant and positive. Staff respected the resident`s rights and information, and residents could express concerns and opinions freely with staff. The home was warm friendly and welcoming and the environment suited the needs of the residents. The home was well managed and this was supported by the regular audits and quality assurance checks carried out by the manager and provider.

What has improved since the last inspection?

Good standards of care practices were noted on the last inspection and only four requirements were issued. The manager had taken prompt action to address these. Better day-to-day maintenance included making sure toilet seats were securely fixed. Fire drills now include different scenarios, and staff had received fire training. Moving and handling training had been provided for staff.

What the care home could do better:

The home needs to improve the information in care plans for people who may need physical intervention. The manager needs to make sure that all staff understand what action to take if a complaint is made. The manager needs to make sure all staff understand about adult protection and where to find the policies and procedures. Recruitment checks need to include full employment history and explained gaps. Person centred planning principles should be introduced; this keeps the individual at the core of all decision-making and identifies the individual`s own aspirations and goals.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Highfield Farm Knowle Road Worsborough Barnsley South Yorkshire S70 4PU Lead Inspector Mrs Sue Stephens Unannounced Inspection 13th December 2005 14:10 Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.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 Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.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. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Highfield Farm Address Knowle Road Worsborough Barnsley South Yorkshire S70 4PU 01226 287 111 01226 248 434 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) Voyage Limited Post Vacant Care Home 8 Category(ies) of Learning disability (8) registration, with number of places Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: 1. The minimum staffing levels must be maintained at, at least, the level required by the `Residential Forum Care Staffing in Care Homes for Younger Adults` published by Residential Forum April 2002. A minimum of one waking plus one sleeping in member of care staff must be on duty between 22:00 and 07:00 hours. 9th June 2005 2. Date of last inspection Brief Description of the Service: Highfield Farm is a care home for younger adults providing personal care and accommodation for 8 people with learning disabilities. Voyage Ltd owns the home. The home is situated on a small road off Sheffield Road, about one mile from the town centre and is close to shops, pubs, and other amenities; the home is close to a main bus route. The home has ground floor and first floor accommodation with single bedrooms, which have en-suite facilities. The premises stand in large gardens and grounds with parking space. A swimming pool is attached to the home, residents can access with staff supervision only. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. Sue Stephens carried out this inspection over 4 hours 20 minutes, between 14:10 pm and 18:30 pm. The manager Vivien Ruth assisted with the inspection. A partial tour of the premises was carried out. Consultation with residents, staff and the manager took place. Samples of the homes records, including one resident’s records, and three staff recruitment records were checked. Residents were observed carrying out their daily routines; and residents were consulted in small groups. Staff were consulted, and observed carrying out their duties. The manager was not registered, and has been asked by the inspector to apply to the commission for registration. The residents, staff and manager are thanked for the welcome they gave to the inspector and their assistance during this inspection. What the service does well: Staff were alerted about a missing resident during the inspection. The staff team took immediate action; they were calm, confident and organised in carrying out the missing person procedure. The resident returned safely and staff greeted the resident in an appropriate and dignified manner. The home is commended for this action. Residents were relaxed and happy at the home and had active and positive life styles. They were encouraged to be independent, and staff recognised and praised the residents for their achievements. Staff dealt with difficult situations professionally and sensitively. Residents’ had their needs regularly assessed by the home and care plans were reviewed and up to date. The information in the care plans was relevant and positive. Staff respected the resident’s rights and information, and residents could express concerns and opinions freely with staff. The home was warm friendly and welcoming and the environment suited the needs of the residents. The home was well managed and this was supported by the regular audits and quality assurance checks carried out by the manager and provider. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.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. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.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 Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.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): 2 and 3 Assessments were carried out and reviewed for residents; this helped to make sure their needs were fully met. EVIDENCE: Residents received a full needs assessment before being admitted to the home. The assessments were monitored and reviewed by the manager and staff, and care plans were developed following the outcome of the assessments. For example the care plan checked included assessing the individuals abilities, behaviours and risks. The inspector spent time with residents at the home; there was a happy and lively atmosphere with residents and staff interacting very positively. Staff had a good understanding of each individual needs including, communication and supporting positive behaviour. Staff and the manager were noted to be using individuals preferred mode of communication very effectively. For example Makaton, which is a form of sign language. Two residents told the inspector they were very happy at the home. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.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): 6,7,8,9,and 10 The care plans contained good information and residents were encouraged to make their own decisions and participate in the day-to-day routines of the home. The residents’ personal information was respected. The home would protect residents’ rights and autonomy better by improving the physical intervention records, and by introducing person centred principles. EVIDENCE: One care plan was checked. The care plan was written in a positive, informative and supportive way. The resident had signed some of the plans and the care plan included thorough risk assessments. The information was not in a format that would help the resident to better understand the plan. For example by using symbols, pictures and photos. One resident’s physical intervention plan and risk assessment was checked. Some necessary information was not included; for example multi disciplinary team agreement, resident’s consent, and who can implement the intervention. The inspector gave the manager advice about good practice guidelines. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 10 Staff positively encouraged residents to make their own decisions, and the inspector noted that the staff were helpful and encouraging. For example when residents were choosing hairstyles, clothes or preparing for outings. Staff had not received person centred planning training. The manager had arranged this for some staff in the New Year. This was a previous recommendation and will help residents to identify their own wishes and goals. The residents’ participation at the home was good. The inspector noted how staff were good at involving individual residents, especially those who tended to be quieter or demanded less attention. The atmosphere at the mealtime was chatty and happy and the residents joined in with conversations, plans and jokes. The confidentiality policy was readily available at the home and the staff interviewed had a good understanding about what it meant and about respecting each resident’s information. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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): 11,12,13,14,16 and 17 The home had a very good attitude towards supporting residents with their personal development, education, leisure and relationships. This was supported with good resources. Mealtimes were positive and enjoyable with good fresh health food. EVIDENCE: Residents were busy with their daily activities. These included college, shopping, walks and exercise, home chores and chosen leisure activities. On the day the inspector visited residents went to the pantomime and there were a list of other arranged Christmas activities including shopping, a Christmas meals out. The home had a swimming pool and had access to a bird sanctuary and animal farm where residents could visit or work voluntarily. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 12 In the office clear notices were on display for residents and staff about what the daily and weekly activities were. The team managers oversaw the activities and residents were given choices about what they wished to do. The day’s activities were very busy and the home was commended for recognising that residents might need some quiet time amongst this. The residents invited the inspector to have tea with them. The mealtime was very much a family occasion, it was positive and enjoyable. Residents were supported with their meals where needed, this was done in a dignified manner. Staff were attentive to individual needs and were respectful to residents requests. Residents were encouraged to be independent. The meal was well cooked, fresh and nutritious, and healthy options were encouraged. The dining area was spacious and tables were properly set with condiments for residents to use. Residents had opportunities to do the shopping, meal preparing and cooking. And residents planned their menus weekly. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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): These standards were not checked on this occasion. EVIDENCE: Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 the following standard(s): 22 and 23 Adult protection and complaints procedures were in place. Some staff may need more support to give them more confidence in where to find the procedures and what they mean. EVIDENCE: The home had a complaints procedure and each resident had been given a copy to keep in their bedroom. Staff interviewed knew to refer complaints to the managers, however not all staff were able to say where they would find the procedure if a visitor asked. Resident’s were seen voicing their opinions to staff; staff were attentive and listened. Adult protection procedures were available at the home and staff said they had received training. Not all staff were able to say where they would find the procedures and were unsure about the local authorities procedures. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 the following standard(s): 24 and 30 The home was comfortable and suitable for the residents needs. EVIDENCE: The home was decorated and furnished in a very homely manner. It was warm and inviting and residents were relaxed and able to access the areas they needed. Following the previous requirement the manager had arranged for the slabs outside the home to be levelled. The work had not started at the time of the visit. Sufficient space was provided in the communal rooms. The home was clean and staff were receiving infection control guidance. Residents’ clothes had been carefully laundered. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.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): 31,32,33,34,35 and 36. Staff understood their roles and responsibilities well. Adequate staffing levels, training and supervision supported them to provide good quality care to the residents. The recruitment checks need to be made more robust by checking employment histories and gaps. EVIDENCE: The inspector observed the staff carrying out their duties. The staff team were positive and confident about their role. They were organised and very focused on residents needs. For example one resident went missing during the inspectors visit. Staff carried out the missing person procedure without fuss or panic. Other residents were reassured and their daily routines and activities continued. Five staff members had just completed a National Vocational Qualification in care and a further 4 were working towards the qualification, 5 had just enrolled, this meant that the home was well on it’s way to meeting the 50 staff target. Three recruitment records were checked. The records were well maintained but they did not have the full employment history and written explanations of employment gaps in them. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 17 Staff said they had good training opportunities, these included medication access to NVQ and physical intervention training, which focused on avoiding conflict. The staff said they felt well supported and the manager carried out formal supervisions. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.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, and 39. The home was well managed and good quality assurance systems monitored the care and safety of the residents. EVIDENCE: The manager was not registered. The manager had relevant experience and staff said she was supportive and approachable. The home carried out good quality assurance checks. These included audits, for example health and safety and care practice audits. The provider carried out monthly visits and submitted the reports to the commission. A sample of policies and procedures were checked, these included confidentiality and physical intervention. The policies were appropriately written and were accessible to staff. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 19 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 X 3 3 X X Standard No 22 23 Score 2 2 ENVIRONMENT INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 Score 2 2 3 3 3 Standard No 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 STAFFING Score 2 X X X X X 3 LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 3 12 3 13 3 14 3 15 3 16 3 17 Standard No 31 32 33 34 35 36 Score 3 3 3 2 3 3 CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME 3 PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Highfield Farm Score X X X X Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 2 X 3 X X X X DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 20 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 YA6 Regulation 13 and 15 Requirement Timescale for action 31/01/06 2 YA22 22 The following must be included in care plans for people who may need physical intervention: • Better explanation of the reasons for the behaviour • A record of the benefits of the physical intervention • And why the physical intervention is necessary • The plan should be drawn up and reviewed within a multi disciplinary team setting • Time limits must be agreed and recorded and when it should stop • A record of who can implement physical intervention • A record of when it is appropriate to use intervention • Details of consent • British institute 10 guidelines for people who may receive physical intervention. All staff must be assessed for 31/01/06 their understanding on dealing with complaints. DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Highfield Farm Page 21 2 YA23 13 Staff must be given training and guidance where needed. All staff must be assessed for their understanding on adult protection and where to access the policies and procedures. Staff must be given training and guidance where needed. Uneven slabs must be made safe. Requirement carried forward from previous inspection 09.06.05. Full employment history and the reason for employment gaps must be recorded. The manager must apply to the commission for registration. 31/01/06 3 YA24 23 31/01/06 4 5 YA34 YA37 19 8 31/01/06 31/01/06 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 YA7 Good Practice Recommendations Person centred planning principles should be introduced to the home. Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 22 Commission for Social Care Inspection Sheffield Area Office Ground Floor, Unit 3 Waterside Court Bold Street Sheffield S9 2LR 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 Highfield Farm DS0000049850.V268794.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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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