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Inspection on 29/12/05 for Oaklands

Also see our care home review for Oaklands for more information

This inspection was carried out on 29th December 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 there to be outstanding requirements from the previous inspection report. These are things the inspector asked to be changed, but found they had not done. The inspector also made 1 statutory requirements (actions the home must comply with) as a result of this inspection.

What follows are excerpts from this inspection report. For more information read the full report on the next tab.

What the care home does well

The home has an established manager and senior team which provides stability for the staff team and service users. The home appears well managed with good systems to support service users and staff in place and their effectiveness is regularly monitored. The home has a full compliment of staff that were observed to be effective, motivated and receive a good level of training and support. The manager actively seeks the views of service users representatives and professionals each year about the service provided at the home.

What has improved since the last inspection?

The registered manager confirmed that plans to refurbish some areas downstairs to address the identified deficiencies were underway. Evidence to confirm that improvements to the downstairs shower room, the downstairs toilet and replacing the damaged plasterwork in the lounge will be commencing within the next few weeks. During the inspection a new carpet for the hallway, stairs and landing was being replaced. Further development of the day services and activities has occurred which include an activities reference board to illustrate organised activities so service users can access this information with staff support.

What the care home could do better:

This was a positive inspection with no deficiencies noted on the standards inspected this time. The CSCI will require notification on completion of the plans that address the outstanding deficiencies to the environmental standards noted during previous inspections.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Oaklands 5 The Green Theale Reading Berkshire RG7 5DR Lead Inspector Stewart Mynott Unannounced Inspection 29th December 2005 11:15 Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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 Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Oaklands Address 5 The Green Theale Reading Berkshire RG7 5DR 0118 930 5288 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) londonroad@tiscali.co.uk Milbury Care Services Limited Mrs Theresa Ann Bieny Care Home 6 Category(ies) of Learning disability (6) registration, with number of places Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection 18th August 2005 Brief Description of the Service: Milbury care services ltd is a private company that is registered to provide care and accommodation for up to six adults who have a learning or communication difficulty. The accommodation is provided in Oaklands, a large, older-style detached house that is situated on the outskirts of Theale village. The home is within walking distance of local shops, churches, pubs and cafés. There are bus and rail services from the village to the towns of Reading and Newbury. A private drive at the front of the house provides parking space for several cars and there is a large garden to the rear of the property. Each of the Service Users has an individual bedroom in addition to use of the shared accommodation of the property. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This was an unannounced inspection during the day lasting for just over 3 hours in duration. The focus of this inspection was to concentrate on the arrangements for the staffing and management at the home. Time was spent with the registered manager in discussion to evidence the focus of this inspection. Time was spent talking to staff on duty in the lounge with service users and general observation of every day life including lunchtime. Service users had limited verbal skills and most were unable to directly express their views to the inspector, although conversations about recent organised events in the home did occur with two service users with some staff assistance. Some of the homes records were examined to evidence discussion and observations made during this inspection. Feedback was given to the registered manager in the presence of a service user at the end of the inspection. What the service does well: What has improved since the last inspection? The registered manager confirmed that plans to refurbish some areas downstairs to address the identified deficiencies were underway. Evidence to confirm that improvements to the downstairs shower room, the downstairs toilet and replacing the damaged plasterwork in the lounge will be commencing within the next few weeks. During the inspection a new carpet for the hallway, stairs and landing was being replaced. Further development of the day services and activities has occurred which include an activities reference board to illustrate organised activities so service users can access this information with staff support. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 6 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. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 7 DETAILS OF INSPECTOR FINDINGS CONTENTS Choice of Home (Standards 1–5) Individual Needs and Choices (Standards 6-10) Lifestyle (Standards 11-17) Personal and Healthcare Support (Standards 18-21) Concerns, Complaints and Protection (Standards 22-23) Environment (Standards 24-30) Staffing (Standards 31-36) Conduct and Management of the Home (Standards 37 – 43) Scoring of Outcomes Statutory Requirements Identified During the Inspection Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 8 Choice of Home The intended outcomes for Standards 1 – 5 are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Prospective service users have the information they need to make an informed choice about where to live. Prospective users’ individual aspirations and needs are assessed. Prospective service users know that the home that they will choose will meet their needs and aspirations. Prospective service users have an opportunity to visit and to “test drive” the home. Each service user has an individual written contract or statement of terms and conditions with the home. The Commission consider Standard 2 the key standard to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 2 There is a clear and detailed admission policy available within the home that details the assessment process for prospective service users. EVIDENCE: The registered manager confirmed that there have been no new admissions to the home since 1994. The current service user group is stable and unlikely to change in the near future. There is an admission policy available within the home, which is thorough and detailed, and limited details of this are also contained within the statement of purpose. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 9 Individual Needs and Choices The intended outcomes for Standards 6 – 10 are: 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Service users know their assessed and changing needs and personal goals are reflected in their individual Plan. Service users make decisions about their lives with assistance as needed. Service users are consulted on, and participate in, all aspects of life in the home. Service users are supported to take risks as part of an independent lifestyle. Service users know that information about them is handled appropriately, and that their confidences are kept. The Commission considers Standards 6, 7 and 9 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): Standards 6 to 10 were not assessed during this inspection. EVIDENCE: Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 10 Lifestyle The intended outcomes for Standards 11 - 17 are: 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. Service users have opportunities for personal development. Service users are able to take part in age, peer and culturally appropriate activities. Service users are part of the local community. Service users engage in appropriate leisure activities. Service users have appropriate personal, family and sexual relationships. Service users’ rights are respected and responsibilities recognised in their daily lives. Service users are offered a healthy diet and enjoy their meals and mealtimes. The Commission considers Standards 12, 13, 15, 16 and 17 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 12, 14, 15 and 17 Service users have a good range of appropriate activities to participate in. Staffs have a good relationship with service users families and provide support as needed. The menu and food provided at the home is appropriate and reflective of a family home. EVIDENCE: The registered manager with the staff team has devised a pictorial activities board that lists the organised activities each week. There are a number of activities organised and staff were able to explain each individual’s likes and preferences. Many activities are community based and include the use of more specialist resources. All activities discussed were appropriate for the current service users group. Staff at the home described the support given to assist with family contact. This includes for one service user, a staff member driving a service user to their family home on a regular basis. There were photos on display of the recent Christmas activities in the home. One service users was enthusiastic about the photos and had decorated a Christmas cake and had won first prize Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 11 in a competition. Staff also confirmed that there had been a Christmas party that was well attended by family and friends. Staff at the home are involved in menu choice and preparation of the main meals at the home. The registered manager and staff confirmed that the menu is chosen for the week ahead and all shopping is purchased at the beginning of the week with the service users involvement. The menus that had been chosen were varied and typical of a family home. Four staff were identified as having a particular skill in preparing meals. The lunch on the day had been chosen and all service users appeared to enjoy their meal. Staff provided appropriate assistance and additional equipment such as plate guards ensured independence and dignity. Two service users have allergies and all staff were fully aware of these needs which are easily catered for. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 12 Personal and Healthcare Support The intended outcomes for Standards 18 - 21 are: 18. 19. 20. 21. Service users receive personal support in the way they prefer and require. Service users’ physical and emotional health needs are met. Service users retain, administer and control their own medication where appropriate, and are protected by the home’s policies and procedures for dealing with medicines. The ageing, illness and death of a service user are handled with respect and as the individual would wish. The Commission considers Standards 18, 19, and 20 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): Standards 18 to 21 were not assessed during this inspection. EVIDENCE: Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 13 Concerns, Complaints and Protection The intended outcomes for Standards 22 – 23 are: 22. 23. Service users feel their views are listened to and acted on. Service users are protected from abuse, neglect and self-harm. The Commission considers Standards 22, and 23 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): Standards 22 and 23 were not assessed during this inspection. EVIDENCE: Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 14 Environment The intended outcomes for Standards 24 – 30 are: 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. Service users live in a homely, comfortable and safe environment. Service users’ bedrooms suit their needs and lifestyles. Service users’ bedrooms promote their independence. Service users’ toilets and bathrooms provide sufficient privacy and meet their individual needs. Shared spaces complement and supplement service users’ individual rooms. Service users have the specialist equipment they require to maximise their independence. The home is clean and hygienic. The Commission considers Standards 24, and 30 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 24 and 28 The provider has plans for enhancements to the home to meet some of the shortfalls to the downstairs areas of the home. Further work to include a more thorough refurbishment downstairs to provide additional recreation space is at the planning stage. The CSCI will require notification on completion of these plans. EVIDENCE: A number of deficiencies had been identified at the last inspection with certain areas in the downstairs of the home. Progress on these was revisited at this inspection. Evidence was seen that included the refurbishment of the downstairs shower room, redecoration of the toilet leading from the dining room and replacing the damaged plaster in the lounge. This work is due to start very soon. Work was in progress during the inspection to replace the hall, stairs and landing carpet. The registered manager advised that plans are still being completed to enhance the downstairs space for service users. This will include removing the deficient outbuilding to include the provision of additional recreational space and a new laundry. This will be a positive step to improving the living space for service users. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 15 Staffing The intended outcomes for Standards 31 – 36 are: 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. Service users benefit from clarity of staff roles and responsibilities. Service users are supported by competent and qualified staff. Service users are supported by an effective staff team. Service users are supported and protected by the home’s recruitment policy and practices. Service users’ individual and joint needs are met by appropriately trained staff. Service users benefit from well supported and supervised staff. The Commission considers Standards 32, 34 and 35 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 32, 33, 34 and 35 Service users benefit from a staff team that is competent, appropriately trained and available in sufficient numbers to meet their assessed needs. The registered manager follows good practise for recruitment of new staff, which is protective of service users. EVIDENCE: Staff spoken to confirmed that they receive a varied training program. Two senior support workers confirmed that they have received training to mentor new staff through inductions and the LDAF with the support of the registered manager. One senior support worker maintains the training records and confirmed that she monitors staff progress, plans and books training ahead to meet individual training needs. The registered manager explained the records held to evidence the training at the home. Two induction booklets for recent starters were viewed and in the process of completion. Each staff member has a training record which are up to date and demonstrated that each staff member has received a good varied program of training. Certificates to evidence this training are also held and were seen. Records indicating training has been booked in advance according to individual staffs needs were also seen. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 16 Records seen indicate that there are 14 staff employed, including the registered manager. Six staff have achieved at least NVQ 2 or an equivalent and four further staff members have commenced NVQ level 2 recently. Senior staff and the registered manager confirmed that the home is currently fully staffed and there has been no reliance on agency staff for a long while. Rotas examined for the past six weeks indicate a stable staffing level, which usually provide three staff members during the day and two members from mid evening. There is one night staff with a staff member sleeping in to provide additional support if needed. The registered manager works flexibly and is sometimes is included in the above staffing levels when needed. The registered manager and the senior team are responsible for recruiting staff in line with the policies contained in the home. There is a coordinated approach with the regional office to aid the recruitment of staff. Two recent staff files were viewed and found to contain all the necessary evidence demonstrating good practise. Evidence of CRB checks and POVA First checks were also available. The registered manager is clearly competent and ensures the fitness of new staff to work. This was evidenced through interview notes and additional notes when checking the validity of references and other information. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 17 Conduct and Management of the Home The intended outcomes for Standards 37 – 43 are: 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. Service users benefit from a well run home. Service users benefit from the ethos, leadership and management approach of the home. Service users are confident their views underpin all self-monitoring, review and development by the home. Service users’ rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s policies and procedures. Service users’ rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s record keeping policies and procedures. The health, safety and welfare of service users are promoted and protected. Service users benefit from competent and accountable management of the service. The Commission considers Standards 37, 39, and 42 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 37, 38, 39 and 42 The registered manager is competent and qualified to run the home. The management style is open and staff and service users are included in decisionmaking. There are good systems to monitor the quality of the service provided at the home, which the registered manager uses to measure the home against its aims. There are good arrangements and well-maintained records that evidence that the heath, safety and welfare of service users and staff are protected. EVIDENCE: The registered manager has been in post for over two years and has completed the registered managers award. Training records viewed and discussions with the manager demonstrates a commitment to continued learning and updating knowledge. The manager clearly leads and manages the home in an open and transparent manner as confirmed through staff spoken to during the inspection. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 18 The registered manager described the processes of quality assurance and the monitoring of systems within the home. On an annual basis the registered manager sends out questionnaires to seek the views from service users representatives including professionals involved with each service user. A sample of these questionnaires was seen for this year to evidence this process. Regulation 26 visits occur on a regular basis and these focus on service users views and the provision of services. A senior support worker and the registered manager monitors the systems involved in protecting the health, safety and welfare of service users and staff. A large sample of these records was viewed and all were up date and well maintained without exception. Records viewed included fire safety records, COSHH assessments, hot water temperature checks, electrical and gas safety certificates, maintenance of equipment and food hygiene records. Staffs spoken to had a good understanding of these systems and were fully aware of their responsibility to assist in the monitoring and recording to maintain safe systems. Training records for the entire staff team were viewed and all staff have completed mandatory training in regards to the health, safety and welfare of service users. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 19 SCORING OF OUTCOMES This page summarises the assessment of the extent to which the National Minimum Standards for Care Homes for Adults 18-65 have been met and uses the following scale. The scale ranges from: 4 Standard Exceeded 2 Standard Almost Met (Commendable) (Minor Shortfalls) 3 Standard Met 1 Standard Not Met (No Shortfalls) (Major Shortfalls) “X” in the standard met box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion “N/A” in the standard met box denotes standard not applicable CHOICE OF HOME 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 X 23 X ENVIRONMENT Standard No Score 24 2 25 X 26 X 27 X 28 2 29 X 30 X STAFFING Standard No Score 31 X 32 3 33 3 34 3 35 3 36 X CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score X X X X X LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 X 12 3 13 X 14 3 15 3 16 X 17 3 PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Score X X X X 3 3 3 X X 3 X Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 20 Are there any outstanding requirements from the last inspection? Yes 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 YA24 Regulation 23 (2) (b) (d) (j) Requirement The registered persons ensure that plans are sent to the CSCI that address the refurbishment required to the outbuilding and to ensure an internal finish that staff are able to be kept clean. This plan should also consider the provision of hand wash facilites in the laundry area. Timescale for action 31/03/06 RECOMMENDATIONS These recommendations relate to National Minimum Standards and are seen as good practice for the Registered Provider/s to consider carrying out. No. 1 Refer to Standard YA28 Good Practice Recommendations Develop the outbuilding to a building standard that can be used as an additional separate leisure area. Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 21 Commission for Social Care Inspection Berkshire Office 2nd Floor 1015 Arlington Business Park Theale, Berks RG7 4SA 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 Oaklands DS0000011150.V274397.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 22 - Please note that this information is included on www.bestcarehome.co.uk under license from the regulator. Re-publishing this information is in breach of the terms of use of that website. Discrete codes and changes have been inserted throughout the textual data shown on the site that will provide incontrovertable proof of copying in the event this information is re-published on other websites. 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