Inspection on 19/09/07 for Merlwood

This inspection was carried out on 19th September 2007.

CSCI has not published a star rating for this report, though using similar criteria we estimate that the report is Good. The way we rate inspection reports is consistent for all houses, though please be aware that this may be different from an official CSCI judgement.

The inspector made no statutory requirements on the home as a result of this inspection and there were no outstanding actions from the previous inspection report.

Other inspections for this house

Merlwood 21/09/06

Merlwood 24/01/06

Merlwood 18/08/05

Merlwood 19/01/05

Merlwood 07/04/04

Similar services:

Clover House

Parkside

Park Lodge

Mere Hall View

St Bonaventures

Hudson Road

Whitewalls

Home Farm

Extracts from inspection reports are licensed from CQC, this page was updated on 09/07/2008.

CARE HOME MIXED CATEGORY MAJORITY ADULTS 18-65 Merlwood 27 Worsten Drive Ewood Blackburn Lancashire BB2 4EG Lead Inspector Mr Graham Oldham Unannounced Inspection 20th September 2007 09:30 Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.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 Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.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 Older People and 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. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Merlwood Address 27 Worsten Drive Ewood Blackburn Lancashire BB2 4EG 01254 662827 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) Mrs Jacqueline Samara Vacant Post Care Home 3 Category(ies) of Learning disability (3) registration, with number of places Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection 21st September 2006 Brief Description of the Service: Merlwood is privately owned with Mrs Samara taking responsibility for the dayto-day management of the home. Merlwood is registered to provide personal care for up to three residents with learning disabilities. Merlwood is a large detached house on a new residential estate of similar properties. The home is located on the outskirts of Blackburn town centre and is close to local shops and other amenities. There is a local bus service near the home. There are four bedrooms, each with en-suite facilities. A separate shower room is situated on the first floor. Communal space comprises a through lounge/dining room and a conservatory. There is a well equipped kitchen. There are gardens to the front and rear of the house with access to the canal towpath at the rear. A statement of purpose and service users guide is available for residents or their families to be informed of the facilities and services the home provides. The fees for Merlwood range from £317 to £475 per week. Not included within the fees are hairdressing, newspapers or periodicals and outings. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This key unannounced inspection, including a visit to the home, took place on the 19th and 20th September 2007. Much of the information gained was obtained from talking to Mrs Samara. Two residents were case tracked. Case tracking gave the inspector an overall view of the specific care for the individual resident by checking the plans of care, talking to the two residents involved, examining other documentation and talking to the proprietors. The inspector took detailed notes during the inspection, which have been retained as evidence. Paperwork examined included plans of care, assessment documentation, policies and procedures or documents relevant to each standard. A tour of the building was conducted. Five residents returned survey forms to the CSCI. • All 5 residents were asked if they wanted to move into the home. One said – I picked my own room. Another said – We made plans before I moved. • All 5 received enough information to choose the home. One said – I received a lot of information. Another said – We received a lot of information before I moved here. I decided it was the right place for me. • All 5 made the decisions about what they did during the day. One said – I always tell them what I am doing each day. • All 5 said they did what they wanted during evenings and weekends. One said – I go to my girlfriends at weekends. Staff help me book the taxi. • All 5 knew who to speak to if they were unhappy. One said the manager, his key worker or social services. Another said – If I am not happy with anything I can speak to the staff and they will sort it out. • All 5 knew how to make a complaint. • All 5 said the home was always fresh and clean. Two said they helped to keep it clean. • All 5 said staff always treated them well. One said staff look after me good. Another said – Staff treat us well. They help with anything. • All 5 said carers always listened to what they had to say. One said Staff always listed and help us in any way they can. One resident commented - I like living here. We have good meals. I like going out. Staff take me out a lot and take me on holiday. Another said – Staff are good to me and I like living here. Four residents were male and one female. Ages ranged from late thirties to the eighties. All were British. Nobody wished to speak to the inspector. The very good responses from residents demonstrated the home was meeting their needs. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 6 Two relatives returned survey forms to the CSCI. • Both thought the care home supplied enough information to help make decisions. One said – The home is excellent. I am very happy with the home and so is my son. Due to the closure of the Mowbray Centre there have been changes, which the home and I have been involved in. This has been helpful but created more work for this excellent home. • Both thought the care home always met the needs of their relative. One said – the home meets everything he needs. I could not wish for a better place – top marks. • Both thought the care home helped their relative keep in touch. One said – We all meet up every week and he also comes home on Bank Holidays. • Both felt they were kept up to date with important issues. One said – They always tell me when they take him to the doctors and explain everything to me. Also the dentist and optician. • Both felt the care home always gave the agreed support to their relative. One said – He does get the support he needs. Like choosing what to wear, cleaning his teeth or having a bath. There are quite a few things he needs support for. • Both thought staff always had the skills to look after residents. One said – They have the experience. Also they have passed their exams and have got the caps and gown. They have been caring a long while. • Both thought the care home always met the diverse needs of their relative. One said – They would care for anyone who needs it no matter who they are. The owners are that sort of people. • Both knew how to complain and thought their concerns would be responded to. One said – I don’t have anything to complain about. There are no reasons to raise any concerns. He is well cared for and happy. I recommend them to anybody. • Both felt the care home supported people to live the life they choose. One said – They can choose where they want to go and they will take them anywhere. • One said the home does well by – They look after the residents very well. The home is always clean and tidy. They go for walks, holidays, bowling, swimming and many other activities. They have been teaching him how to make cakes. The 2nd relative said – My brother is well cared for and I have no complaints. • Neither thought the home could improve but one thought the local authority could provide more services and the other commented – they cannot do any more than they are already doing. I have no complaints. Neither relative wished to speak to the inspector. The very positive responses demonstrated relatives were very satisfied with the care given to their family members. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 7 What the service does well: Residents were able to make decisions to enable them to lead a more independent life. Residents were allowed to take calculated risks to lead a more fulfilling life. One resident case tracked said, “We have just got back from holiday and I enjoyed it. The weather was nice every day and there were a lot of people there. We went to the disco and it was the best night. They help me go out and take us places. We get out a lot. We go to the centre. I go to work twice a week. I go to Mill Hill for social occasions. We played games today and I like playing games. I won one game. We are off to a club tonight – bit of a disco and dancing. I just sit and watch and have a pint”. The second resident case tracked said, “I had a good time on my holidays. I went to the disco and I went on the fair. I went on all the rides. I like to play games and watch television. The day centre has shut down so I go to St Andrews for my dinner and meet my friends. I also like to go to the gardening centre and help out there. I like to go swimming and playing bowls on a Tuesday. I also go shopping for my things like clothes but I like to buy pop”. Residents attended leisure and work activities to provide stimulation. One resident case tracked said, “I go to see my mum every so often and stay over Christmas and I see her every Wednesday. Residents were able to access the community and meet family and friends to maintain contact with whom they wished. One resident case tracked said, “I like the staff who work here they are nice to me. I am used to living here and they look after us every day. Staff help me with my care. I look after myself and staff help me. I am helped with my shaving and things”. Another resident case tracked said, “I dress myself and help with the washing. I also like to vacuum and also cutting the grass. I help with the shopping”. Resident’s personal care was given privately to help maintain their dignity. The good standard of the homes environment enabled residents to lead a comfortable life. One resident case tracked said, “If there is something wrong I can talk to the staff. I feel safe here”. Another resident case tracked said, “I go to talk to manager if I have any problems. I feel safe here because they are kind”. Staff were aware of the risk to vulnerable adults and residents were able to complain if they wished to help protect them from possible harm. Resident’s case tracked said, “The food is good every day – its lovely. I help cooking and washing up. I get good meals every day” and “The food is good here. I help with the washing up and cooking. I made a cake”. Resident’s case tracked said the food was good and their nutritional needs were met. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 8 Resident’s case tracked said, “I get to see the doctor, optician, chiropodist and see a nurse at the health centre” and “I have my eyes tested and can get to see my doctor. I have just seen the optician. The chiropodist cuts my toenails”. Residents had access to specialists to ensure their health care needs could be met. Resident’s case tracked said, “The owners are very good to us I think it is very nice here. It is a bonny house. I have a very nice room” and “I like it here – I enjoy it – I am going to live here ten years. I am very happy”. Residents case tracked were happy with the care they received. 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. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 9 DETAILS OF INSPECTOR FINDINGS CONTENTS Choice of Home Individual Needs and Choices Lifestyle Personal and Healthcare Support Concerns, Complaints and Protection Environment Staffing Conduct of Management of the Home Scoring of Outcomes Statutory Requirements Identified During the Inspection Adults 18 – 65 (Standards 1–5) (Standards 6-10) (Standards 11–17) (Standards 18-21) (Standards 22–23) (Standards 24–30) (Standards 31–36) (Standards 37-43) Older People (Standards 1–5) (Standards 7, 14, 33 & 37) (Standards 10, 12, 13 & 15) (Standards 8-11) (Standards 16-18 & 35) (Standards 19-26) (Standards 27-30 & 36) (Standards 31-34, 37 & 38) Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 10 Choice of Home The intended outcomes for Standards 1 – 5 (Adults 18 – 65) and Standards 1 – 5 (Older People) are: 1. 2. 3. Prospective service users have the information they need to make an informed choice about where to live. (OP NMS 1) Prospective users’ individual aspirations and needs are assessed. No service user moves into the home without having been assured that these will be met. (OP NMS 3) Prospective service users’ know that the home that they choose will meet their needs and aspirations. Service Users and their representatives know that the home they enter will meet their needs. (OP NMS 4) Prospective service users’ have an opportunity to visit and “test drive” the home. Prospective service users and their relatives and friends have an opportunity to visit and assess the quality, facilities and suitability of the home. (OP NMS 5) Each service user has an individual written contract or statement of terms and conditions with the home. Each service user has a written contract/statement of terms and conditions with the home. (OP NMS 2) 4. 5. The Commission considers Standard 2 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 3 and 6 (Older People) the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): YA2 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Prospective residents were assessed to ensure staff could meet the needs of residents and develop plans of care. EVIDENCE: No new residents had been admitted since the last key inspection. Assessment documentation inspected during the case tracking process was sufficient to ensure staff gained sufficient knowledge to correctly place each individual. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 11 Individual Needs and Choices The intended outcomes for Standards 6-10 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 7, 14, 33 & 37 (Older People) are: 6. Service users know their assessed and changing needs and personal goals are reflected in their Individual Plan. The Service Users health, personal and social care needs are set out in an individual plan of care. (OP NMS 7) Service users make decisions about their lives with assistance as needed. Service Users are helped to exercise choice and control over their lives. (OP NMS 14) Service users are consulted on, and participate in, all aspects of life at the home. The home is run in the best interests of service users. (OP NMS 33) Service users are supported to take risks as part of an independent lifestyle. The service users health, personal and social care needs are set out in an individual plan of care. (OP NMS 7) Service users know that the information about them is handled appropriately and that their confidences are kept. Service Users rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s record keeping, policies and procedures. (OP NMS 37) 7. 8. 9. 10. The Commission considers Standards 6, 7 and 9 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 7, 14 and 33 (Older People) the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): YA6, YA7 and YA9 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Plans of care had been developed to ensure staff were aware of each residents needs. Residents were able to make decisions to maximise their independence. Residents undertook risks to help maximise their choices. EVIDENCE: Two plans of care were examined during case tracking. Both plans of care were detailed and contained up to date information following regular review. Both residents case tracked were satisfied with the care they received. Residents had written consent that the care was what they wanted. Family members who Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 12 returned survey forms were very satisfied with the level of care and the information they were given to keep them up to date. Residents and their families were satisfied the care given had been developed with each individual in mind. Risk assessments, personal to each resident, were observed during the case tracking process. Survey forms returned by residents showed the residents had a lot of autonomy in the day-to-day routines of the care service and took risks. Risk assessments were for the protection of residents, yet allowed some independent living. Resident’s case tracked said they made choices such as what they ate, where they went or how they dressed. Survey forms returned from residents confirmed residents were able to make many choices in how they lived their lives to help maximise their contentment. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 13 Lifestyle The intended outcomes for Standards 11 - 17 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 10, 12, 13 & 15 (Older People) are: 11. Service users have opportunities for personal development. Service Users find the lifestyle experienced in the home matches their expectations and preferences and satisfies their social, cultural, religious and recreational interests and needs. (OP NMS 12) Service users are able to take part in age, peer and culturally appropriate activities. Service users find the lifestyle experienced in the home matches their expectations and preferences, and satisfies their social, cultural, religious and recreational interests and needs. (OP NMS 12) Service users are part of the local community. Service users maintain contact with family/ friends/ representatives and the local community as they wish. (OP NMS 13) Service users engage in appropriate leisure activities. Service users find the lifestyle experienced in the home matches their expectations and preferences and satisfies their social, cultural, religious and recreational interests and needs. (OP NMS 12) Service users have appropriate personal, family and sexual relationships and maintain contact with family/friends/representatives and the local community as they wish. (OP NMS 13) Service users’ rights are respected and responsibilities recognised in their daily lives. Service users feel they are treated with respect and their right to privacy is upheld. (OP NMS 10) Service users are offered a (wholesome appealing balanced) healthy diet and enjoy their meals and mealtimes. Service users receive a wholesome appeaing balanced diet in pleasing surroundings at times convenient to them. (OP NMS 15) 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. The Commission considers Standards 12, 13, 15, 16 and 17 (Adults 1865) and Standards 10, 12, 13 and 15 (Older People) the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): YA12, YA13, YA15, YA16 and YA17 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 14 Residents were able to access the community and take part in suitable activities to maximise their fulfilment. Residents were able to remain in contact with their families and friends to remain socially active. Residents were treated as individuals to protect their rights. Meals were appreciated by residents and met their nutritional needs. EVIDENCE: Evidence gained from case tracking and from survey forms demonstrated residents had an active social life. On the day of the inspection some residents were out and others were playing board games. All the residents had just returned from a holiday to Skegness and said they had enjoyed it. This was the second holiday of the year. Activities are held on a daily basis and include bowling (ten pin and crown green in summer), swimming, football, the Gateway club, Peter Pan club, shopping, TV and DVD and other venues such as meals out or just relaxing. Each resident had a list of daily activities they were able to attend. Activities also included life skills such as washing clothes, cooking or tidying up. One resident attended church as his Sunday activity. One resident case tracked enjoyed gardening. Residents discussed activities at meetings to give ideas and feedback to management. Residents attended work and one resident was attending a computer course at college. The wide variety of leisure and social activities ensured residents mixed with the community and were content with their lives. Residents case tracked said they were able to visit their families regularly. Survey forms returned from family members said the care service promoted contact in a positive way. Residents were able to choose whom they see and one resident visited his girlfriend. Family and friend contact met resident’s expectations. Residents were observed being able to join in or remain in their rooms as they wished. Staff interacted well with residents during the inspection. Access was allowed to all parts of the home unless a risk assessment demonstrated this was not possible. The daily routines of the home were flexible and promoted independence and protected residents dignity. Residents were able to vote. The person in charge said residents were encouraged to vote and usually used the postal voting service. Residents were able to attend church if they wished. Resident’s rights were protected. Residents case tracked were very satisfied with the meals they were given and sometimes helped prepare. Both residents said they liked to help with cooking or setting the tables. The person in charge said residents were asked what they wanted to eat on a daily basis. Residents assisted to do the weekly shop in the services own transport. Environmental health checks had been completed and there was a rota to keep the kitchens clean. The dining area Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 15 was sufficient for the residents accommodated at the home. There was a cooked option at least twice a day. Resident’s weights were recorded if necessary. Residents went out for a meal on a regular basis. No residents needed a different cultural or religious diet. The food served at the care service met resident’s tastes. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 16 Personal and Healthcare Support The intended outcomes for Standards 18 – 21 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 8 – 11 (Older People) are: 18. 19. 20. Service users receive personal support in the way they prefer and require. Service users feel they are treated with respect and their right to privacy is upheld. (OP NMS 10) Service users’ physical and emotional health needs are met. Service users’ health care needs are fully met. (OP NMS 8) 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. Service users, where appropriate, are responsible for their own medication and are protected by the home’s policies and procedures for dealing with medicines. (OP NMS 9) The ageing, illness and death of a service user are handled with respect and as the individual would wish. Service users are assured that at the time of their death, staff will treat them and their family with care, sensitivity and respect. (OP NMS 11) 21. The Commission considers Standards 18, 19 and 20 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 8, 9 and 10 (Older People) the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): YA18, YA19 and YA20 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Residents were able to make informed choices and retain some independent living. Residents physical and emotional health needs were met. Medication policies, procedures and staff training protected the health and welfare of residents. EVIDENCE: Resident’s case tracked said they were allowed choices within the routine of the home. The person in charge said their role was mainly supervisory. Survey forms returned from all the residents demonstrated they were able to do as they wished. Residents were able to choose what they did to maximise their contentment. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 17 Two residents files examined during the case tracking process contained evidence residents had access to health care specialists. Residents case tracked confirmed they had access to heath care specialists. The person in charge said each resident had a yearly review of their needs undertaken by a specialist nurse. A good system had been developed using the computer to remind staff when residents had any appointments. Resident’s health action plans were retained within their plans of care. The health care needs of residents were regularly reviewed and staff had an overview of each residents needs. Each resident has consented to staff prompting or administering medication. All staff administering medication had completed an accredited medication course. Medication was stored safely in each home. Nobody was taking controlled drugs. The home had a copy of the royal pharmaceutical societies guidelines to ensure policies and procedures were up to date. The method for recording medication was safe and had been completed correctly. The person in charge said there were no problems accessing the Pharmacist. “They come every six months – check the policies and Mars sheets and dispose of unwanted medication”. Medication administration was safe and staff training prevented possible errors. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 18 Concerns, Complaints and Protection The intended outcomes for Standards 22-23 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 16-18 & 35 (Older People) are: 22. 23. Service users feel their views are listened to and acted on. Service users and their relatives and friends are confident that their complaints will be listened to, taken seriously and acted on. (OP NMS 16) Service users’ are protected from abuse, neglect and self-harm. Service users legal rights are protected. (OP NMS 17) Also Service users are protected from abuse. (OP NMS 18) Also Service users financial interests are safeguarded. (OP NMS 35) The Commission considers Standards 22-23 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 16-18 and 35 (Older People) the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): YA22 and YA23 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Residents were able to voice their concerns if they wished. Policies and procedures for the protection of vulnerable adults helped safeguard residents from possible abuse EVIDENCE: Residents were able to talk to staff formally and informally to voice their opinions. No complaints had been made about the service to the CSCI since the last inspection. Survey forms returned from residents and family members demonstrated they knew how to complain. Nobody had any complaints. There was a satisfactory complaints procedure. Residents were able to access help if they needed to complain. The home had updated policies and procedures for the protection of vulnerable adults. The home had a whistle blowing policy and a copy of the ‘No Secrets’ Document. The home used the Blackburn with Darwen Adult Abuse procedures to follow a local initiative. Staff had attended training for the protection of Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 19 vulnerable adults. Policies, procedures and staff training protected residents from possible abuse. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 20 Environment The intended outcomes for Standards 24 – 30 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 19-26 (Older People) are: 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. Service users live in a homely, comfortable and safe environment. Service users live in a safe, well-maintained environment (OP NMS 19) Also Service users live in safe, comfortable surroundings. (OP NMS 25) Service users’ bedrooms suit their needs and lifestyles. Service users own rooms suit their needs. (OP NMS 23) Service users’ bedrooms promote their independence. Service users live in safe, comfortable bedrooms with their own possessions around them. (OP NMS 24) Service users’ toilets and bathrooms provide sufficient privacy and meet their individual needs. Service users have sufficient and suitable lavatories and washing facilities. (OP NMS 21) Shared spaces complement and supplement service users’ individual rooms. Service users have access to safe and comfortable indoor and outdoor communal facilities. (OP NMS 20) Service users have the specialist equipment they require to maximise their independence. Service users have the specialist equipment they require to maximise their independence. (OP NMS 22) The home is clean and hygienic. The home is clean, pleasant and hygienic. (OP NMS 26) The Commission considers Standards 24 and 30 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 19 and 26 (Older People) the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): YA24 – YA30 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The environment met the needs of the residents accommodated at the home. EVIDENCE: A tour of the home was conducted on the day of the inspection. The home was warm, clean and did not have any offensive odours. All resident survey forms said the home was always clean and tidy. Residents case tracked were happy Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 with their rooms. All of the furniture and décor were of a good quality and were well maintained. There were sufficient facilities such as dining tables and chairs for residents. Kitchens were clean and tidy. All rooms were single and the possible privacy issue had been resolved with the use of a curtain. There was a new security system using cameras around the outside of both buildings. During the tour staff were observed interacting and playing games with residents. There was a good rapport. Rooms visited had been personalised and contained good levels of furniture and equipment. There were policies and procedures for the control of infection. Suitable laundry facilities kept residents clothes clean. Outside space was accessible and well maintained. There was a new modern television system with large screen TV and surround sound. The décor and furnishing of the home provided residents with a homely atmosphere. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 22 Staffing The intended outcomes for Standards 31 – 36 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 27 – 30 & 36 (Older People) are: 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. Service users benefit from clarity of staff roles and responsibilities. Service users are supported and protected by the home’s recruitment policy and practices. (OP NMS 29) Service users are supported by competent and qualified staff. Service users are in safe hands at all times. (OP NMS 28) Service users are supported by an effective staff team. Service users needs are met by the numbers and skill mix of staff. (OP NMS 27) Service users are supported and protected by the home’s recruitment policy and practices. Service users are supported and protected by the home’s recruitment policy and practices. (OP NMS 29) Service users’ individual and joint needs are met by appropriately trained staff. Staff are trained and competent to do their jobs. (OP NMS 30) Service users benefit from well supported and supervised staff. Staff are appropriately supervised. (OP NMS 36) The Commission considers Standards 32, 34 and 35 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 27, 28, 29 and 30 (Older People) the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): YA32, YA34 and YA35 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Residents were supported by sufficient numbers of well-trained staff. Recruitment policies and procedures protected residents from possible abuse. EVIDENCE: Two staff files were examined during the inspection. Files contained necessary information for recruitment and copies of courses undertaken. No new staff had been employed since the last key inspection. There was a member of staff who was being recruited and the correct procedures were being followed. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 23 Recruitment procedures protected residents from staff who may not be suitable to work with vulnerable adults. Staff had completed NVQ training. Staff had undertaken further training in topics suitable for the resident group accommodated at the home. There was a training profile for each individual and the home as a whole. It was recommended that a member of staff take a qualification within the learning disability area. There were sufficient numbers of staff on duty on the day of the inspection to meet the needs of residents. There was a duty rota which showed staffing was maintained at an acceptable level. The owners were very much ‘hands on’ and performed all normal staffing duties including sleeping in. Resident’s needs were met by a well-trained staff team. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 24 Conduct and Management of the Home The intended outcomes for Standards 37 – 43 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 31-34, 37 & 38 (Older People) are: 37. Service users benefit from a well run home. Service users live in a home which is run and managed by a person who is fit to be in charge of good character and able to discharge his or her responsibilities fully. (OP NMS 31) Service users benefit from the ethos, leadership and management approach of the home. Service users benefit from the ethos, leadership and management approach of the home. (OP NMS 32) Service users are confident their views underpin all self-monitoring, review and development by the home. The home is run in the best interests of service users. (OP NMS 33) 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 homes record keeping, policies and procedures. (OP NMS 37) Service users’ rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s record keeping policies and procedures. Service users rights and best interests are safeguarded by the homes record keeping policies and procedures. (OP NMS 37) The health, safety and welfare of service users are promoted and protected. The health, safety and welfare of service users and staff are promoted and protected. (OP NMS 38) Service users benefit from competent and accountable management of the service. Service users are safeguarded by the accounting and financial procedures of the home. (OP NMS 34) 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. The Commission considers Standards 37, 39 and 42 (Adults 18-65) and Standards 31, 33, 35 and 38 (Older People) the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): YA37, YA39 and YA42 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The registered person was suitably qualified and experienced to manage the home for the benefit of residents and staff. The registered person had undertaken quality assurance work to gain the views of residents and their families. The health and welfare of residents and staff was protected. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 25 EVIDENCE: The manager had attained the Registered Managers Award. One of the owners had completed the new mental capacity act training and was aware of current issues. Further training included an accredited medication course, health and safety training, first aid and food hygiene. The registered person continued to update training for the benefit of staff and residents. There were recorded staff and residents meetings. The home had gained the Investors in People award. There was a business plan. The views of residents, families and stakeholders had been obtained. It would be beneficial for the format to be simplified for residents with a learning disability and a recommendation was made generally for any documents that could be simplified would be better for residents. A summary needed to be produced and provided to interested parties. The registered person had devised a system to react to the views of those connected with the home. Fire alarm systems had been maintained and fire drills and equipment tests had been carried out. Gas and electrical appliances had been maintained and certificates obtained. The person in charge was aware of health and safety legislation. There was a health and safety policy and procedures for staff to adhere to. Accidents were recorded in a suitable format Safety procedures were available for staff to read. Staff had been trained in aspects of health and safety such as fire awareness, moving and handling, first aid, health and safety, risk assessment, infection control, protection of vulnerable adults and food hygiene. Health and safety policies, procedures and training protected the welfare of staff and residents. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 26 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. Where there is no score against a standard it has not been looked at during this inspection. 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 3 26 3 27 3 28 3 29 3 30 3 STAFFING Standard No Score 31 X 32 2 33 X 34 3 35 3 36 X CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT Standard No Score 37 3 38 X 39 2 40 X 41 X 42 3 43 X 3 3 X 3 X LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 X 12 3 13 3 14 X 15 3 16 X 17 X PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Merlwood Score 3 3 3 X DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 27 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. 1. 2. 3. Refer to Standard YA32 YA39 YA39 Good Practice Recommendations The registered person should ensure at least one member of staff undertake an NVQ within the learning disability award framework. The registered person should ensure a summary is produced from the quality assurance questionnaires and supplied to interested parties. The registered person should ensure documents such as the quality assurance questionnaire or complaints procedure are simplified for any resident who may not understand them Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 28 Commission for Social Care Inspection Lancashire Area Office Unit 1 Tustin Court Portway Preston PR2 2YQ 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. Merlwood DS0000057162.V345279.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 29 - 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. 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