Inspection on 14/07/05 for Northfield House

This inspection was carried out on 14th July 2005.

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

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

Other inspections for this house

Northfield House 06/11/08

Northfield House 16/11/06

Northfield House 23/11/05

Northfield House 15/02/05

Northfield House 17/08/04

Northfield House 09/03/04

Similar services:

2 Perhaver Park

The Vicarage

St George`s

5 Seafield Road

Credence House

Radfords

Honeybourne House

32 Beaumont Way

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

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Northfield House Tower Hill Williton Somerset TA4 4JR Lead Inspector Kathy McCluskey Announced 14 July 2005 th 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 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 Stationary 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. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Northfield House Address Tower Hill, Williton, Somerset, TA4 4JR Telephone number Fax number Email address Name of registered provider(s)/company (if applicable) Name of registered manager (if applicable) Type of registration No. of places registered (if applicable) 01984 633810 Voyage Ltd Marianne Seager PC Care Home only 10 Category(ies) of Learning Disability (10) registration, with number of places Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Registerd for 10 persons in Categories LD and PD. Date of last inspection 15th February 2005 Brief Description of the Service: Northfield House is a large detached property located on the outskirts of Williton. Accommodation is provided on two levels. The home has ten bedrooms all have en-suite facilities. There are ground floor bedrooms and facilities for people who have the use of a wheelchair, including a bathroom with an overhead hoist and a walk-in shower. There are further bedrooms and a shower room and bathroom on the second floor. The extensive garden and patio areas of the home are beautifully presented. Northfield House is registered with the Commission for Social Care Inspection to provide personal care for up to 10 service users who have a learning disability and physical disability. Northfield House is not registered to provide nursing care. The home is owned by Voyage Ltd and the responsible individual is Mr Steve Ball .The registered manager is Marianne Seager. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This announced inspection was conducted over one day (5.75hrs) by CSCI Regulation Inspector Kathy McCluskey. At the time of the inspection 10 service users were living at the home and two were spending time with their families. The inspector was able to meet with 7 service users. A tour of the premises took place where a selection of bedrooms and all communal areas were seen. The inspector was shown around the home by service users. Six completed CSCI service user cards were analysed. Responses and comments indicated that service users enjoyed living at Northfield House. All indicated that they felt safe and well cared for. All commented on the kindness of staff. The registered manager was available throughout the inspection. The majority of the inspection was spent with service users and the inspector was invited to stay to lunch. Records relating to care, staff and health and safety were examined. The inspectors would like to thank the service users, manager and staff for their time and cooperation with the inspection process. The following is a summary of the inspection findings and should be read in conjunction with the whole of the report. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 6 What the service does well: Northfield House provides service users with a safe, comfortable and homely environment. Service users are provided with single private accommodation which is fitted with en-suite toilet facilities. Service users are encouraged to personalise their bedrooms and are able to choose the colour scheme of their rooms. All spoken with at the inspection stated that they loved their rooms and that their privacy is always respected. All service users stated that they felt safe and well cared for and could always talk to somebody if they had any concerns. This was also indicated in the 6 completed CSCI service user comment cards received. Service users are able to enjoy a wide range of spacious communal areas and the home benefits from a large beautifully maintained garden with a large range of comfortable garden furniture. Service users were observed utilising all areas of the home and were able to choose where they spent their day. The ethos of the home, which is promoted by the manager and her staff team is one which promotes independence and inclusion for all service users. It was apparent to the inspector that the staff team are committed to ensuring that service users benefit from a fulfilling lifestyle whatever their needs or abilities. Staff morale was high and this has a positive effect on service users. Without exception, all service users spoken with were very positive regarding the staff team and the support they received. Some comments included; ‘The staff are brilliant’, ‘the staff make Northfield House like home’, ‘it couldn’t be better’, ‘They are a good laugh!’ Interactions between staff and service users was kind and respectful and it was apparent to the inspector that service users were very relaxed and comfortable in the presence of staff. Service users and staff benefit from the skills and management style of the registered manager, Marianne Seager. Marianne is very much a ‘hands on’ manager who promotes an open an inclusive style of management. Both service users and staff spoke highly of Marianne. All records pertaining to the home, staff and service users were very well organised, up to date and stored in a manner which promoted confidentiality. Service users benefit from a wide range of activities and opportunities. Regular holidays and trips out take place in the home’s mini-bus. Two trips out took place on the day of the inspection. The home is currently busy arranging holidays in Majorca, Devon, Skegness, London, Spain and the South of France. Holiday destinations are chosen by Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 7 service users and service users are supported on holiday by their key workers and other staff as appropriate. Service users spoken with were very positive regarding the opportunities that were open to them. What has improved since the last inspection? What they could do better: The procedures at the home for the management of service users ‘pocket monies’ is good. The company’s arrangements for the management of service users finances requires improvement. It was noted at this inspection that the manager and service users were unaware of their weekly entitlement or exactly how much money they had. It was noted that service users had a substantial amount of money, which was held in a company account in Lichfield and this has been the case for the last 18 months. Whilst the manager stressed that service users could access their money at any time, this arrangement is not appropriate and does not promote independence for those service users who would be able to manage their own accounts. It appeared that many of the service users at the home would be capable of opening their own bank accounts. It has therefore been required that any finances belonging to service users is transferred into a personal bank account and that service users and/or their representatives, are informed of the breakdown of charges and weekly entitlements. It has been required that this is addressed by the 30th August 2005. Although the home regularly seeks the views of service users ‘in-house’, it has been recommended at this inspection that the quality assurance procedure is implemented to ensure the views of service users, relatives and stakeholders are sought and analysed. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 8 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. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 9 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 Standards Statutory Requirements Identified During the Inspection Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 10 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 standard(s) 1 and 3 Prospective Service users are provided with the information they need to enable them to make an informed choice about moving to the home. EVIDENCE: The home has produced a Statement of Purpose and Service User Guide which clearly identifies services offered by the home. The inspector was not advised of any changes to these documents since the last inspection. Prospective service users and their representatives are issued with a copy of the Statement of Purpose and the inspector was able to see evidence that service users living at the home has been issued with a copy of the Service User Guide. The home’s current scale of charges are between £632.80 & £945.63 per week. Extra charges are met by service users for personal toiletries/items, hairdressing, clothing, magazines and trips out. Service users also contribute towards the cost of holidays and, depending on the amount awarded, service users contribute a portion of their DLA towards transport arrangements provided by the home. Prospective service users are informed of the fees and extras to be charged following a full assessment. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 11 As the home has remained ‘full’ and has not has any admissions for some time, not all standards were assessed. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 12 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 standard(s) 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 Service users are fully involved in the care planning process and are supported to take informed risks within their agreed plan of care. The home’s care planning procedures are good. Service users are supported to maintain an independent lifestyle and are fully involved in life at the home. The company’s procedures for the management of service users finances requires improvement to promote independence for service users. EVIDENCE: Two service user care plans were examined and both were found to contain detailed information regarding the assessed needs of the service users. Care plans identified clear instructions for staff on how to meet the individual’s needs. The inspector was able to see evidence that the service user had been fully involved in the care planning and review process. In summary care plans were detailed, well maintained and up to date. Service users spoken with were positive regarding the support they received from staff in meeting their needs. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 13 Six service users returned completed comment cards to the CSCI. All indicated that they felt well cared for and that they knew who to talk to if they were ever unhappy with the care they received. The inspector examined the procedures for the management of service users finances. At the last inspection it was recommended that the home obtains two signatures for any financial transaction. The inspector was able to see evidence that this had been addressed by the manager. Service users spoken with appeared unclear as to how much money they had though informed the inspector that their money was kept in the office. Records maintained at the home referred to the management of weekly amounts awarded to service users of approximately £18.80pw. Records were good and balances were checked for two service users and were correct. The manager and service users were unaware of the amount of any other allowances such as DLA. On further examination of records it appeared that service users had a substantial amount of money which was being held in a company account in Lichfield. Although the manager stated that service users could access this money at any time, it was concerning that service users appeared unaware of the amount they had or that they did not have their own personal bank accounts. The manager acknowledged that the majority of service users at the home would be able to open and manage their own bank account with staff support. It has been required that this is addressed. Service users are encouraged and supported to make informed decisions about their life and the care they receive. Service users are involved in the care planning process and are fully informed of any restrictions identified. Where appropriate, risk assessments are completed for service users and any identified risks are discussed and agreed with the service user and other professionals as appropriate. Service users are supported to take informed risks as part of their plan of care. Detailed risk assessments were seen in the two care plans examined. These were seen to be detailed and up to date. Service users and staff confirmed that service users are encouraged and supported to be involved and to make decisions about all aspects of life at the home from decisions about the decoration of the home to the recruitment of new staff and the colour of the new mini-bus. The views of service users are sought both formally and informally. Monthly meetings are held for service users and the minutes of these meetings are displayed in the kitchen area for service users. Service users also have access to the home’s policies and procedures, some of which are available in symbol format. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 14 The home takes appropriate action to ensure that information pertaining to service users is handled in a manner which respects confidentiality. The home has a policy for staff regarding confidentiality and the inspector was able to see that all records pertaining to service users were stored in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 15 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 standard(s) 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17 The opportunities for personal and social development are good. Service users benefit from a well-balanced and varied diet, which they are involved in planning and cooking. EVIDENCE: Service users living at Northfield House are supported to develop and maintain skills which will enhance their independence. This was evident on discussion with service users, through observation and on examination of care records. As part of the plan of care, service users are encouraged and supported to take part in household chores. A cleaning and cooking schedule is agreed with service users. Service users living at the home are supported to attend the local adult education centre where community events can also be enjoyed. Classes currently attended include; art, drama, pottery, signing and singing. The home also utilises the College in Taunton for classes in computers, sport and keep fit. Two service users attend a work placement Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 16 Service users spoken with were very positive regarding the access they had to local community facilities, though expressed disappointment that some of the courses were due to end. The home encourages and supports service users to pursue their own hobbies or to experience new activities. The preferences of service users are recorded in the individual’s plan of care. At the home, service users have access to televisions, music, a computer and a very relaxing ‘snoozelum’ room. Various games and art and craft materials are also available. Service users at Northfield House benefit from regular outings and holidays. Some of the holidays venues planned for this year include; Paignton, Croyde, Majorca, Newcastle, London and Skegness, Spain and the South of France. Service users are supported during their holidays by their keyworker and other staff as appropriate. As appropriate and in line with the preferences of the individual, service users are supported to maintain links with family and friends. Visitors are welcome at any reasonable time and the service user can choose where they see their visitors. Service users are fully involved in the planning and cooking of meals. This was explained to the inspector by service users. A rota is displayed in the kitchen as to which service users are responsible for preparing and cooking the meals. Lists are also displayed which highlight any likes or dislikes of service users. On the day of this inspection, the inspector was invited to join service users and staff for lunch. A wholesome meal, with lots of choices was prepared and the meal was enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere in the large dining room. Service users were very positive regarding the provision of food and of their involvement. Service users were able to help themselves to fresh fruit, snacks and drinks throughout the day. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 17 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 standard(s) 18, 19 and 20 Service users are appropriately supported to meet their personal and healthcare needs. The home’s procedures for the management and administration of medication are good. EVIDENCE: All service users spoken with stated that staff respected their privacy and dignity. This was also indicated in all 6 CSCI service user comment cards and confirmed by those service users spoken with. On the day of this inspection staff were observed interacting and communicating with service users in a kind and respectful manner. Service users expressed very positive comments about the manager and the staff team. Some of the comments included; ‘they are brilliant’, ‘They make Northfield House home’ and ‘They are a good laugh!’ Information regarding the assessed needs of individual’s and how staff should meet these needs is clearly maintained in the plan of care. All service users are registered with a local GP and dentist and staff offer support as appropriate or where requested, to attend appointments. A chiropodist visits the home every month. Access to opticians or other relevant professionals is accessed where appropriate. The home maintains individual records of all health care visits. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 18 The home’s procedures for the management and administration of medication were examined at this inspection and was found to be very well maintained. The home uses the monitored dosage system (MDS) with pre-printed Medication Administration Records (MAR). MAR charts contain photographs of service users to aid identification. The home maintains appropriate records for the receipt and return of medicines to the pharmacy. Senior staff are responsible for the administration of medication and have received appropriate training. The registered manager stated that the home received excellent support from the dispensing pharmacy. The home’s last Health Authority Community Pharmacy Advice Visit was conducted on 07/06/05 and no recommendations were raised. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 19 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 standard(s) 22 and 23 The home’s complaints procedure is good. The home takes appropriate steps to reduce the risk of harm or abuse to service users. EVIDENCE: The home has a clear complaints procedure which has also been produced in symbol format for service users. Copies of the complaints procedure were available in bedrooms seen at the inspection. Service users informed the inspector that they would not hesitate to raise concerns should they have any. This was also indicated in all 6 completed CSCI service user comment cards. The inspector was informed that there have been no complaints since the last inspection and no complaints/concerns have been raised directly with the CSCI. The home takes appropriate steps to reduce the risk of harm or abuse to service users. A ‘Whistle Blowing Policy’, Bullying policy and Somerset’s policy on the Protection of Vulnerable Adults are all available at the home. These documents are discussed and issued to staff as they are recruited and are discussed during regular staff supervision and staff meetings. The home operates robust recruitment procedures which include enhanced CRB and POVA checks. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 20 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 standard(s) 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 Service users benefit from a safe, clean, homely environment which meets their needs and provides private accommodation and a good range of communal areas. The home takes appropriate steps to reduce the risk of the spread of infection. EVIDENCE: Northfield House is situated in a quiet residential area not far from the centre of the small town of Williton. Accommodation is arranged over two floors. The home has 10 single bedrooms all of which have en-suite toilet facilities. 5 bedrooms are on the ground floor with 5 on the first floor. 4 of the bedrooms are accessible to wheelchair users. Service users informed the inspector that they liked their bedrooms and had been involved in choosing colour schemes for their rooms. Some bedrooms were seen at this inspection and it was evident that service users are encouraged to personalise their rooms. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 21 Communal areas are situated on the ground floor and consist of 2 lounges, a dining room, kitchen, computer and sensory room. Some areas of the home have been suitable adapted to meet the needs of service users with a physical disability. The home also has two mobile hoists and grab rails are appropriately sited throughout the home. Adjustable beds were seen to be in place where there was an assessed need. There are two bathrooms on the ground floor, one of which is fitted with a Jacuzzi bath, which has access for a mobile hoist. The second bathroom has a level access shower. A further bathroom and shower room are located on the first floor. All bathrooms are fitted with a lock which can been accessed by staff in the case of an emergency. The home has a well equipped laundry where service users are supported to launder their personal items. The home benefits from a large well maintained garden which is also accessible to wheelchair users. Several service users were enjoying the garden on the day of the inspection. The home has a wide selection of garden furniture. A programme of maintenance and refurbishment is in place and the home employs a maintenance person for 20 hours a week. At the time of this inspection, all areas of the home seen were clean and free from malodours. Liquid soap and paper hand towels were seen to be appropriately sited throughout the home. Service users spoken with at the inspection stated that they ‘loved living at Northfield House’ and that ‘it was the best place ever’. Six completed CSCI service user comment cards were received at the time of this report and all service users indicated that they felt safe and enjoyed living at Northfield House. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 22 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 35 the key standard to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for standard(s) 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 and 36 The home takes appropriate steps to ensure staff are appropriately trained and supervised and service users benefit from a committed staff team. Staff morale is high which has a positive outcome for service users. The home’s recruitment procedures are robust and reduce the risk of harm or abuse to service users. EVIDENCE: The home takes appropriate steps to ensure that staff are well informed as to their role and responsibilities and the roles of others. All staff are issued with a job description which clearly identifies their responsibilities and lines of accountability. Staff are also issued with copies of the home’s policies and procedures. These are discussed, along with the aims and objectives of the home, at regular supervision sessions and staff meetings. The inspector was able to sample records relating to staff supervision and meetings at this inspection. Records seen were detailed and well maintained. Staff spoken with at the inspection were very positive regarding the support and training opportunities they received. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 23 The manager maintains individual training records for staff which clearly identify training achievements and training needs. Apart from mandatory training, other training which had taken place or was planned included; Somerset Total Communication, stress management, rectal administration of diazepam, intensive interaction, epilepsy awareness and introduction to syndromes. Through observation and discussion with staff and service users, it was apparent that the manager and the staff team were committed to ensuring that service users benefited from a fulfilling lifestyle which took into account their preferences and abilities. Staff spoken with did express concerns about a change in working shift patterns as it was felt that there was less continuity for service users. The home is in the process of trying to address this with the company. All newly appointed staff undertake a period of induction/training which continues throughout the employees 6 month probationary period. All staff have an individual training programme which covers mandatory training and health & safety issues. In addition to this, all staff undertake the Learning Disability Award. The inspector examined the recruitment records of the staff member who had been recruited since the last inspection. This contained all information as required in Schedule 2 of the Care Home Regulations 2001. Without exception, all service users spoken with at the inspection commented on the kindness of staff. Some other comments received were; ‘they are the best’, ‘they make it home here’, ‘the staff are just brilliant’ Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 24 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 39, and 42 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for standard(s) 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 and 43 Service users benefit from a well managed home where an open and inclusive style of management is promoted. The home takes appropriate steps to ensure the health and safety of service users, staff and visitors. EVIDENCE: The registered manager of the home is Marianne Seager. Marianne has worked with people with a learning disability for over 10 years and has achieved an HND in Managing Health and Care Services. Marianne has attended all mandatory training and continues to keep herself updated. Marianne is very much ‘hands on’ and her management style promotes an open, positive and inclusive atmosphere, which benefits both service users and staff. All spoken with at the inspection were very positive regarding the Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 25 management of the home and stated that they found Marianne very approachable. Regular meeting are held for service users and staff. Views are encouraged and minutes are displayed. At the last inspection, the inspector was informed that the company was in the process of developing ‘quality questionnaires’ which would seek the views of service users and relatives. No progress had been made in addressing this and a recommendation has been raised. The home has a good selection of policies and procedures for staff and service users and some have been produced in symbol format. The inspector was able to see evidence that these had been kept under review to ensure that they meet with current legislation. At the time of this inspection, the home is taking appropriate steps to ensure the health and safety of service users, staff and visitors to the home. This was ascertained by a tour of the premises, on discussion with service users and staff and on examination of the following records: FIRE SAFETY – The home conducts weekly checks on the home’s fire detection systems and monthly checks on emergency lighting. Records are maintained. Fire detection systems and fire fighting equipment is serviced by an outside contractor on an annual basis. This was last recorded as April 2005. The home conducts regular fire drills for service users and staff. Records are maintained which identify all those involved. Torches are checked on a weekly basis with records maintained. ELECTRICAL SAFETY – The home’s portable appliances (PAT) are tested annually. This was last carried out on 09/03/05. The home has an up to date electrical hardwiring certificate dated 02/10/04. GAS SAFETY – An up to date certificate was seen. The home’s last annual gas safety check was conducted on 22/06/05 EQUIPMENT SERVICING – Servicing records were found to be up to date. The home has two mobile hoists. The Wispalong electric hoist was serviced on 09/02/05 and a new midi electric hoist was purchased on 31/05/05. The two electric profiling beds are new and do not yet require servicing. HOT WATER OUTLETS/SURFACES – The home maintains records of weekly checks on all hot water outlets. Records seen indicated that bath hot water outlets were within HSE recommended limits. On two occasions bath hot water outlets exceeded recommended limits and the inspector was able to see that appropriate action had been taken to rectify. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 26 To ensure the safety of service users, all upstairs windows are restricted and wardrobes are secured to the wall. The manager maintains detailed risk assessments for service users which clearly identify any personal or environmental risks. Training records maintained by the manager indicated that all staff had received up to date mandatory training, which included; moving & handling, fire, health & safety, food hygiene, COSHH and first aid. The home has a qualified first aider on every shift. The home displays an appropriate and up to date employers liability insurance certificate. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 27 SCORING OF OUTCOMES This page summarises the assessment of the extent to which the National Minimum Standards for Care Homes for Adults 18-65 have been met and uses the following scale. The scale ranges from: 4 Standard Exceeded 2 Standard Almost Met (Commendable) (Minor Shortfalls) 3 Standard Met 1 Standard Not Met (No Shortfalls) (Major Shortfalls) “X” in the standard met box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion “N/A” in the standard met box denotes standard not applicable CHOICE OF HOME CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS Standard No 1 2 3 4 5 Score 3 x 3 x x Standard No 22 23 ENVIRONMENT Score 3 3 INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 LIFESTYLES Score 3 2 3 3 3 Score Standard No 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 STAFFING Score 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Standard No 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Standard No 31 32 33 34 35 36 Score 3 3 3 3 3 3 CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Northfield House Score 3 3 3 x Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 3 4 3 3 3 3 3 D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 28 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 YA7 Regulation 20(a) Requirement The registered person must make arrangements for any finances belonging to service users to be transferred to individual bank accounts. A breakdown of an individuals charges and personal allowances should be made available to the service user and/or their representative. Timescale for action 30/08/05 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 YA39 Good Practice Recommendations The registered person should ensure that the homes quality assurance procedures are implemented to ensure that the views of service users, families and stakeholders are sought and analysed. Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 29 Commission for Social Care Inspection Riverside Chambers Castle Street Tangier Taunton TA1 4AL 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 Northfield House D53-D02 S59622 Northfield House V227135 300605 Stage 4.doc Version 1.30 Page 30 - 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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