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Inspection on 18/10/06 for Littlecroft

Also see our care home review for Littlecroft for more information

This inspection was carried out on 18th October 2006.

CSCI has not published a star rating for this report, though using similar criteria we estimate that the report is (sorry - unknown). 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 home has a management team who have many years experience working with the needs of the current service user group. The residents living at the home benefit from being supported by people who treat them as individuals and encourage them, however limited the communication skills, to express themselves. Care guidelines are and available to staff to explain what support should be given in particular circumstances. Staff are offered a wide range of training opportunities to help them understand and meet the service users needs.

What has improved since the last inspection?

The manager and staff team continue to examine the care and support that is provided, looking to innovate and further develop the service. It was reported that a number of staff were due to commence NVQ training the day after the inspection visit.

What the care home could do better:

There was an issue relating to medication administration and recording identified at the first visit. Suggestions were also made for additional guidelines and protocol. The inspector was pleased to note at the second visit, that steps had been taken to address the issue and to monitor progress.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Littlecroft 132 Dunes Road Greatstone New Romney Kent TN28 8SP Lead Inspector Geoff Senior Key Unannounced Inspection 18 & 27th October 2006 10:30 th Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.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 Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.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. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Littlecroft Address 132 Dunes Road Greatstone New Romney Kent TN28 8SP 01797 361601 01797 361806 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) Rosecroft Care Limited Mrs Lisa Jane Ulph Care Home 5 Category(ies) of Learning disability (5) registration, with number of places Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: 1. That only 2 service users be admitted until such time as alteration work has been completed to the satisfaction of the CSCI. 11th January 2006 Date of last inspection Brief Description of the Service: Littlecroft is registered as a Care Home for up to 5 adults with a learning disability. Rosecroft Ltd is the Registered Provider and Ms. L. Ulph is the registered manager. Littlecroft is a detached chalet bungalow situated in a residential area of Greatstone, a short walk away from the local amenities and the beach. There is service user accommodation on 2 floors and comprises 4 ground floor bedrooms and 1 first floor en-suite single room. In addition to the Management team the company employs 6 care staff. They work a rota that includes staff on the premises at night `on-call. There are no staff specifically employed to undertake meal preparation and cleaning. The Officer was informed that care staff carry out these duties. Administration and maintenance are undertaken predominantly by Mr & Mrs Ulph and the Deputy Manager. According to its Aims and Objectives, Littlecroft provides care for adults with a learning disability in an environment, which respects individuality and promotes the development of service users potential and self esteem. The reported weekly fees are £850-£1200 pw. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. The inspection was unannounced and was undertaken on 18 & 27/10/2006. During the course of the visits the inspector met and spent time with the Manager, deputy manager and with two staff on duty. The opportunity to discuss with the service users, their experiences and opinions of the home was limited by levels of communication and understanding. The inspector was able however, to observe throughout the visit, the staff’s attention to the service users’ needs, their patient, friendly and respectful manner and their treatment of each service user as an individual. The Inspector viewed the premises and inspected a range of records. What the service does well: 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. The summary of this inspection report can be made available in other formats on request. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 6 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 Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 7 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. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 1,2 Quality in this outcome area good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The statement of purpose and the service user guide provide service users and their representatives with information needed to make a decision about moving into the home. There is a system for pre admission and ongoing assessment of prospective service users to ensure mutual benefit and compatibility of the placement. EVIDENCE: A Statement of Purpose and Service User Guide address the requirements of the standard. There is a good level of detail and comprehensive information in a format suitable for the intended reader. Both documents are reviewed and updated on a regular basis. The home has a detailed referral assessment package. This is generally initiated prior to admission and completed during the three month probationary period, after which, a decision on the permanency of the placement is made.. The service user and their family/representative are encouraged to participate in the assessment process. All staff have experience in working with adults with a learning disability and more specific communication needs Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 8 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. 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 using available evidence including a visit to this service. There is a clear and consistent care planning process. Staff have a good understanding regarding residents’ rights to make decisions and to be consulted on matters affecting them. Risk assessment are undertaken and relate to care plans to enable service users to participate in chosen activities with staff support EVIDENCE: Care plans contain current and detailed information relating to the support needs of the individuals. Service users family and representatives are encouraged to be involved in the formulation of care plans and participate in the regular reviews. Choice is offered as a matter of course in all issues relating to support and care of the service users. Routine but not ritual is an aim within a flexible, structured regime. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 9 All records are stored in a lockable office. There was no public display of personal or confidential information. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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. 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 using available evidence including a visit to this service. The management foster a culture of mutual respect and support. Staff indicated a good understanding of service users support needs. There is an open and relaxed feel to the home. Daily routines respect service user rights and individuality. Meals are provided in accord with service user needs and wishes EVIDENCE: There is a weekly programme of leisure and therapeutic activities based upon service user needs and wishes, these activities are flexible to meet daily needs. The wishes of service users are acknowledged and responded to appropriately and access to any specific services is facilitated whilst ensuring no one is overloaded. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 11 Staff support the service users at a variety of venues; to the local shops, cafes social clubs, shopping and leisure centres. A number of vehicles are available to transport service users. The Service User group is generally well established and the staff are aware of food likes, dislikes and preferences. Meals are provided mainly based on the service user preferences but also take into account the need for a reasonably balanced diet. Records are kept of meals provided. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 18,19,20. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Service users are treated with respect and their right to privacy respected. Healthcare needs are kept under review and appointments with health care agencies attended as required. Medication storage was satisfactory. The manager agreed to monitor systems to ensure that all medication records are current and up to date. EVIDENCE: The staff endeavour to provide Service Users with appropriate personal support in a dignified and sensitive manner. General day to day routines and activities are flexible. It was reported that although the majority of Service Users require a degree of assistance and guidance in matters relating to personal hygiene and appearance, it is only offered when required. The Inspector observed the staff responding to service Users in a supportive and non-patronising manner. The health care needs of the service users are monitored and addressed. Health issues are identified, documented and acted upon with advice from specialists. Additional equipment and facilities are assessed and provided Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 13 where service users have changing levels of need. The home also made sure that the physical needs of the most recent admission were promptly and appropriately catered for. Medication storage and administration appeared to be generally satisfactory. There was one recommendation identified during discussions at this visit. A recording omission was discussed with the staff and management. Staff administering medication are offered MDS training and training specific to epilepsy. It was reported that staff do not administer medication until they have been assessed by the management and deemed competent. The home has policies and procedures in place. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 22,23. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Staff members have undertaken adult Protection Training. Systems are in place to promote and maintain protection from abuse. EVIDENCE: There is a written and Makaton format complaints procedure available to service users and families contained within both the Statement of Purpose and the policies and procedures file. It explains how concerns may be raised re the standard of services and facilities provided and the homes response to any concern raised. Staff have an awareness of issues of abuse of vulnerable adults obtained on NVQ training and have now been given the opportunity to undertake specific Adult Protection training. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 24,30. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The premises appear to be generally well maintained, clean and hygienic. The home provides a comfortable environment in which to live and work. EVIDENCE: The Home presents a comfortable, welcoming and varied environment in which to live and work. Private areas are decorated according to service users choice and preference. The alterations to the premises, to provide additional private and shared space have been completed and the home now has bedroom accommodation for five service users. The communal areas are well decorated and comfortably furnished. The service users are encouraged to make use of the enclosed garden. The maintenance checks on equipment are current and generally satisfactory. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 32,34,35. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Recruitment practices provide for the protection of service users. Staff are supported to access training courses to enable them to work more effectively with the service users. EVIDENCE: Staff spoken to during the two visits were aware of, and focussed on, the needs of the individual service users. The Inspector was present at a shift handover where relevant information was relayed to the incoming staff in a clear and thorough manner. The management team have undertaken training and are well experienced in the care of individuals in a residential setting. All staff are expected to undertake basic safety and service specific training. It was reported that a number of staff were due to commence NVQ training the day after the inspection visit. The records seen reflect a robust recruitment procedure. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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. 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 using available evidence including a visit to this service. The home is well run with an ethos of inclusion, support and development. The health, safety and welfare of those who live and work in the home appears to be promoted and protected. EVIDENCE: Mr and Mrs Ulph expressed a clear vision for the direction of the home, which had been effectively communicated to staff. They are well supported by senior staff in providing clear leadership. Staff demonstrated an awareness of the expectations, duties and responsibilities of their role. Mr and Mrs Ulph have completed the Registered Managers Award, Mrs Ulph is a trained nurse and has maintained her registration. The staff and service users benefit from an open and inclusive management approach and have opportunity to express opinions at regular meetings. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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 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 3 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 3 2 X 3 X 3 X X 3 x Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 19 Are there any outstanding requirements from the last inspection? no 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. 1. Refer to Standard YA20 Good Practice Recommendations The manager agreed to monitor systems to ensure that all medication records are current and up to date. Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 20 Commission for Social Care Inspection Maidstone Local Office The Oast Hermitage Court Hermitage Lane Maidstone ME16 9NT National Enquiry Line: Telephone: 0845 015 0120 or 0191 233 3323 Textphone: 0845 015 2255 or 0191 233 3588 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 Littlecroft DS0000061652.V298430.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 - 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. The policy of www.bestcarehome.co.uk is to use all legal avenues to pursue such offenders, including recovery of costs. You have been warned!