CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65
Searsons Way 40 Fairkytes Avenue Hornchurch Essex RM11 1XS Lead Inspector
Mr Roger Farrell Key Announced Inspection 15th December 2006 11:00 DS0000067619.V323035.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 DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 2 This is a report of an inspection to assess whether services are meeting the needs of people who use them. The legal basis for conducting inspections is the Care Standards Act 2000 and the relevant National Minimum Standards for this establishment are those for Care Homes for Adults 18-65. They can be found at www.dh.gov.uk or obtained from The Stationery Office (TSO) PO Box 29, St Crispins, Duke Street, Norwich, NR3 1GN. Tel: 0870 600 5522. Online ordering: www.tso.co.uk/bookshop This report is a public document. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the prior permission of the Commission for Social Care Inspection. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION
Name of service Searsons Way Address 40 Fairkytes Avenue Hornchurch Essex RM11 1XS 01708 709149 01708 709427 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) Clearwater Care (Hackney) Ltd Mrs Brenda Netto Care Home 4 Category(ies) of Learning disability (4) registration, with number of places DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION
Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection Brief Description of the Service: Searsons Way is a new care home for four people who have learning disabilities. Opened in September 2006, it is owned and run by Clearwater Care, an organisation that have three other care homes, with three more in the pipeline. Searsons Way is a spacious property on a corner plot in a pleasant residential setting, in walking distance of the shops and amenities of Hornchurch town centre. The setting-up phase of the home went smoothly, thanks to having an experienced qualified manager in post from an early stage; good attention to design detail in converting the house; and a competent management approach to developing the project. This resulted in three residents achieving a smooth transition to their new home, with the fourth person also showing determination to become part of this household. The range of fees is £1,400 to £1,600 a month. The company have also purchased the house next door, which will be developed as a separate care home. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 5 SUMMARY
This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This first inspection took place between 11am and 6.30pm on 15 December 2006, three months after the home opened. Brenda Netto, the registered manager was in post for nearly a year ahead of the first residents moving in, therefore was able to steer the development of the project. She is an experienced and qualified home manager, including setting up the last care home she managed. As well as having an up-to-date knowledge of good practice, she has an informed understanding of the care standards and legal requirements covering care homes. She was available throughout the inspection day, and was efficient and competent in responding to enquiries and providing the paperwork the inspector asked to see. The inspector gave her an update on recent changes to the way care homes are monitored, including from next April, the home’s ‘quality rating’ being made public. The inspector met with a group of four staff. Questionnaires were sent out to relatives and social workers, and three returns were received. The inspector was introduced to all residents, observed the mealtimes and was able to chat to the most recent resident who knows the inspector from his previous home. What the service does well:
The company, manager and team are congratulated for the successful way they have established this service. It is a significant achievement to consistently score ‘good’ ratings in nearly all of the standards used to assess care homes within three months of opening. The most positive headline is the top ‘excellent’ score has been awarded for the quality of the assessments. Residents’ backgrounds, abilities, and support needs have been thoroughly researched – including the valuable opinions and knowledge of close relatives. This has enabled the manager and team to understand residents’ modes of expression in order to address the anxiety involved in making this important transition. For some residents, this is their first major life change. Comprehensive care monitoring and recording systems were set up from the start. These will be used to plan ways in which residents will be assisted to develop coping skills, express choice, and move onto wider social involvement. In addition to recruiting an experienced manager team, the company have demonstrated their commitment to quality in the way they have ensured firstrate facilities, and quick fixes to minor running-in problems. The detailed way they have monitored the service through their ‘monthly reports’ is further evidence of a strong company framework. An additional bonus has been the support provided by the GP, community nurses and specialist health care practitioners. One community nurse who has been visiting the home regularly wrote – “When I visit the home the staff are courteous and helpful. The staff have complied with all the advice given. I believe (my client) is receiving an excellent
DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 6 standard of care.” Another comment was – “I am the care manager for one of the residents. I am very happy with the care and support given by staff.” The home was named in honour of the company’s development manager, Mr Eddie Searson, who sadly died suddenly ahead of this project opening. He had spent many years setting up services that have resulted in adults with learning disabilities achieving much greater levels of independence, and the opportunity to participate in ordinary communities and enjoy broader lifestyles. At this early stage this new service has all the hallmarks of a successful community care project that is working well in the best interests of the service users and their families. The owners, managers, and team are congratulated for achieving such a successful launch, which honours the significant contribution made by Mr Searson to modernising support services for vulnerable adults. 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. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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 DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Quality in this outcome area is ‘good’, with the top ‘excellent’ score awarded for the quality of the assessment material. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service that involved looking at how assessments were carried out. A major conclusion is that the residents have been well supported throughout the transition period, including sensitive attention to their individual needs and the feelings of their families. EVIDENCE: The manager gave a detailed description of each person’s circumstances, main support needs, existing family and social links, and move-in timetable. The two service user files looked at in detail had the required range of documentation. This included - a two-page personal profile; a ‘summery of needs’ from the social worker; Clearwater’s eight-page ‘pre-admission assessment’; their ‘health and social care needs’ schedule; and a move-in checklist. Of particular note were the detailed life histories and preferences profiles done by a relative. The main example seen was twenty-pages long with comments under a comprehensive range of headings. This demonstrates a very good approach to assessment, and took into account where appropriate the significant involvement of families who had been the main carers. The manager and staff show an attentive approach to understanding the communication of those residents who use few or no words. Homes have to have two main documents that set out the facilities and service they provide. The ‘statement of purpose’ is well presented and covers all the
DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 9 items that must be included. However, the inspector said it would be helpful to include the staff complement, and how shifts are covered in the section about the organisational structure. The ambition to make some documents understandable to residents can be seen in how pictures are used in the ‘service users’ guide’. An introductory profile of each staff member is also included. A copy of the company’s standard contract is included in the ‘service users’ guide’. Although the main terms and conditions are covered by the principal agreement with each funding agency, the company are hoping to finalise their version, and include a signed copy for each resident. Copies of the principal contacts were on resident’s individual files. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 10 Individual Needs and Choices
The intended outcomes for Standards 6 – 10 are: 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Service users know their assessed and changing needs and personal goals are reflected in their individual Plan. Service users make decisions about their lives with assistance as needed. Service users are consulted on, and participate in, all aspects of life in the home. Service users are supported to take risks as part of an independent lifestyle. Service users know that information about them is handled appropriately, and that their confidences are kept. The Commission considers Standards 6, 7 and 9 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10. Quality in this outcome area is ‘good’. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service that involved looking at the service user files and discussing each person’s main support needs. The manager and team have been successful in setting up and operating a comprehensive care planning, monitoring, and review system from the outset. This is being done in a manner that respects residents’ expressions and choices and the close involvement of relatives where appropriate. EVIDENCE: The inspector looked in detail at two residents’ personal files. This included the ‘service user file’; the ‘personal book’; and the ‘daily monitoring file’. The manager and team are to be congratulated for having in place such a comprehensive system at such an early stage. The files are neatly arranged in a methodical way in line with the front ‘contents’ index sheets. The ‘service user file’ has sections covering a personal profile with photo; an ‘everyday living skills inventory’; detailed personal profiles completed where appropriate by a relative; the various assessment reports; and a detailed twenty-page ‘current review’ document, which in some instances parents have made entries. There are a range of risk-assessments and monitoring pages, as well as a ‘missing person form’. Attention to individual needs are well set out in
DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 11 sections covering behaviour management guidelines, with good detailed recording of instances of challenging behaviour. The main working file kept in the living area further demonstrates a very good attention to detail. There is a good range of guidance and further monitoring schedules covering matters such as day and night routines, including nighttime checks; behaviour charts and reports; seizure monitoring; bowel charts; and attention to basic aspects of care such as wheelchair maintenance. The day-to-day notes have good detailed entries made three times over the three main shifts. The manager and other staff have been able to set up a comprehensive care planning system that has been in use since the home opened, and all the evidence is that it working very well, notably charting how staff are quickly developing ways of dealing with each resident’s routine needs, expressions of choice, and more challenging behaviour. Main reviews involving care managers and family have been held within the three-month target period. There is strong evidence to confirm that all standards in this group are being successfully achieved. This includes listening to residents’ opinions. The fourth resident had come to spend an overnight stay, but had decided that he wanted to move-in straight away and was refusing to return to his care home, even though a contract had not been agreed. Attention to privacy and independence is illustrated by the fact that one resident was used to being supervised when using the toilet. Staff now feel confident to monitor the situation with them outside the closed door. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 12 Lifestyle
The intended outcomes for Standards 11 - 17 are: 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. Service users have opportunities for personal development. Service users are able to take part in age, peer and culturally appropriate activities. Service users are part of the local community. Service users engage in appropriate leisure activities. Service users have appropriate personal, family and sexual relationships. Service users’ rights are respected and responsibilities recognised in their daily lives. Service users are offered a healthy diet and enjoy their meals and mealtimes. The Commission considers Standards 12, 13, 15, 16 and 17 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17. Quality in this outcome area is ‘good’. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service that involved discussing each resident’s social links and activities. There is a well-considered approach not to over expose resident s to too many changes on top of moving to this new household. Nevertheless, attention is being paid to finding out about interests and dealing with anxiety arising from new places and faces. The home has its own vehicle, but at present there are only two approved drivers. Arrangements for meals are satisfactory, including finding out about personal preferences. EVIDENCE: The thorough assessments and contacts with former carers including families means that there is detailed knowledge and understanding of all residents’ personal history and lifestyles. This includes one person who has had very little social contact; another who is very anxious about contact with unfamiliar people; and a person who experiences frequent seizures. An outstanding achievement of this new service is that astute attention to detail is helping to develop ways of engaging with residents, including understanding non-verbal communication. The priority over the formative period has been to help residents settle in their new environment, for two people this is their first
DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 13 experience of living away from the family home. The fourth person who was joining the household group has is a regular member of a resource centre. Likes and dislikes were being recorded. For instance, there is a common interest in certain board games. However, it had been decided that introductions to wider new social experiences need to be done cautiously. Consequently, whilst broader social and recreational opportunities were being researched, no firm arrangements had yet been established. The personal files do have sections covering ‘education and skill training’; ‘occupation and daytime activity; and ‘leisure activities’ – but these have not generally been brought into use at this stage. One resident is still extremely anxious about leaving the building. Another resident is concerned that going out might mean he will not be able to return. The current approach is well measured, even though it does not involve busy lifestyles away from the house at this stage. However, residents do visit local shops and help with the main weekly shop; one resident goes to the cinema; and three residents have been bowling. Plans were under way to help one resident go to a local gym. Tickets had been bought for a pantomime the following week, and there were good arrangements to make this household’s first Christmas a pleasant celebration. There are already a number of completed risk-assessments covering social activities and going out. The home has a new Vauxhall Zafira, adapted to take the wheelchair of the person who needs it away from the house. Residents pay £5 a week towards the cost of petrol. As stated earlier, there has been a great deal of contact with families where they have been the main carers. There is regular contact and visits by the families of three residents. In one instance, it was now thought appropriate for one person to have overnight stays back with his family. Steps have also been taken in the one instance where there has been little family contact, such as offering visits to the new home and invitations to reviews. House meetings have been started and the inspector saw the minutes of the meeting held the previous week. The manager, deputy and a senior previously worked at a home that had a strong tradition of home cooking, including using lots of fresh vegetables. They were ensuring that this healthy approach is followed in this setting. The manager said – “There are no special dietary needs and we have picked up on any dislikes. All residents like fresh vegetables which is good. The aim is to have all residents involved in the main weekly shop and to choose items. There has been no limit set on the food budget.” The inspector saw how the mealtimes on the day of the inspection were sociable gatherings for all residents and duty staff. All residents were relaxed, and staff were seen to be attentive to their needs. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 14 Personal and Healthcare Support
The intended outcomes for Standards 18 - 21 are: 18. 19. 20. 21. Service users receive personal support in the way they prefer and require. Service users’ physical and emotional health needs are met. Service users retain, administer and control their own medication where appropriate, and are protected by the home’s policies and procedures for dealing with medicines. The ageing, illness and death of a service user are handled with respect and as the individual would wish. The Commission considers Standards 18, 19, and 20 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 18, 19, 20 and 21. Quality in this outcome area is ‘good’. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service that involved looking at personal and health care support and medication arrangements. Good links and involvement have been established with doctors and health care workers, and all contacts and treatments are well recorded.. EVIDENCE: The detailed care guidelines, monitoring records and charts show an astute understanding of individual support needs. These cover both routine care tasks and more specialist health needs. For instance, there are instructions on the extent of help needed with personal hygiene and daily living routines. Additionally, there are good records of assisting with seizures, including a detailed protocol on using emergency medication, self-injury, and other challenging expressions of frustration. The files have good health records. These include tracking sheets for contacts with the GP, outpatient appointments, dentist, optician, chiropodist, and so on. The three established residents have been registered with a local GP, and the manger said – “So far the service has been very good. He comes out to see the residents who is fearful of leaving the house, and prescriptions are forwarded quickly.” She went on to add – “We are lucky being close to the
DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 15 Hermitage, and the team are giving us lots of support. This has included the specialist epilepsy nurse, a nurse that covers challenging behaviour and the ot. I am very happy with the access we have to health care services.” The good attention to health care monitoring is shown by one example where staff have concluded from their observations that one resident may need treatment for a suspected tissue problem that may be causing spells of pain. Medication is supplied by Boots in their monitored dose packs, with printed instruction and recording sheets. All staff have attended the basic course provided by Boots. Medication is stored in a drugs cabinet in the office. The medication file was in good order, including using photos and having simple descriptions of the drugs being used, as well as a main drugs directory. The practice is for two staff to be involved in giving out medication, with double signatures on the ‘mar’ sheets. There have been no known errors. Copies of the organisation’s policies and procedures covering the safe management of medication are available. The manager agreed that she needs to adapt these to the specific arrangements of this house. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 16 Concerns, Complaints and Protection
The intended outcomes for Standards 22 – 23 are: 22. 23. Service users feel their views are listened to and acted on. Service users are protected from abuse, neglect and self-harm. The Commission considers Standards 22, and 23 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 22 and 23. Quality in this outcome area is ‘good’. This judgement has been made using available evidence including checking that the required guidance was available, and that staff had been told what to do if there was a complaint or suspicion of abuse. All the necessary steps have been taken to deal with complaints and respond to protection issues. EVIDENCE: The manager has a full understanding of the steps that must be taken if there is a complaint or suspicion of abuse. Copies of all the main guidance are available, including the local protection guidelines and the company’s procedures. The manager says that the way to say if you are unhappy has been covered in the house meetings. Staff have signed to say they have read the main ‘protection of vulnerable adults from abuse’, and have been issued with a copy of the General Social Care Council’s code of practice. In their meeting with the inspector staff gave informed answers regarding procedures including ‘whistle-blowing’ responsibility, and confirmed that they have attended training on protection from abuse and been given the main national code of practice. However, the manager needs to provide staff with a further briefing on the role of the General Social Care Council, including the phased programme of registering. There have been no complaints or concerns logged since the home opened. The manager is looking at what advocacy services may be available to in this locality. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 17 Environment
The intended outcomes for Standards 24 – 30 are: 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. Service users live in a homely, comfortable and safe environment. Service users’ bedrooms suit their needs and lifestyles. Service users’ bedrooms promote their independence. Service users’ toilets and bathrooms provide sufficient privacy and meet their individual needs. Shared spaces complement and supplement service users’ individual rooms. Service users have the specialist equipment they require to maximise their independence. The home is clean and hygienic. The Commission considers Standards 24, and 30 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30. Quality in this outcome area is ‘good’. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service that involved looking at all areas of the premises; and checking on safety arrangements. Good attention to detail has ensured that this house has been converted into pleasant, safe home that is well suited to the needs of the four men. EVIDENCE: The conversion of the property has been carried out to a high standard, including all the safety features required by the regulations covering care homes. The main living area is a spacious open plan lounge/diner/kitchen. The quality of furnishings, fittings and décor are good throughout the house. Quotes have already been sought about adding a conservatory as one resident smokes a pipe occasionally – though there is already 24sqm of communal space. All bedrooms are over 12sqm, with the two on the ground floor having full en-suites. The two first-floor bedrooms have their own private wc’s, and have a shared bathroom. Having an experienced home manager involved from an early stage has proved useful. The manager said – “The company have been really responsive, including agreeing some quite late changes such as installing an extra en-suite
DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 18 bath and replacing a carpet. There have been very few running-in problems. There was a problem with the phones, but our experience is that (the company) sort things out as soon as possible.” A staff member commented – “The fact that it is such a nice house has helped. We can take a pride in it, and I think the homely touches and open space has really helped the men settle in quickly…..I think it shows that (the owners) mean what they say about providing a quality service.” There is a fully integrated fire alarm system with smoke detectors in each room, and a safety lock release on the front door. Critical fire doors have automatic release latches. Radiators have a protective covers, with thermostats in each room, and upstairs windows have opening restrictors. Hot water taps have safe temperature valves. There is a separate utility room with a washing machine that has a sluice cycle. All parts of the building were found to be clean, fresh and to have a comfortable level of heating. Office space is tight, but it is equipped with all modern essentials such as internet connection, a fax and photocopier. The good-sized garden has been landscaped, including a decked patio. There is a large storage shed at the bottom of the garden. The only safety issues found by the inspector was the need to provide safer cabling for the electricity to this outhouse. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 19 Staffing
The intended outcomes for Standards 31 – 36 are: 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. Service users benefit from clarity of staff roles and responsibilities. Service users are supported by competent and qualified staff. Service users are supported by an effective staff team. Service users are supported and protected by the home’s recruitment policy and practices. Service users’ individual and joint needs are met by appropriately trained staff. Service users benefit from well supported and supervised staff. The Commission considers Standards 32, 34 and 35 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 and 36. Quality in this outcome area is ‘good’. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service that involved looking at staff vetting and training. The inspector met with a group of staff and they showed a dedicated, informed and enthusiastic approach to helping all four residents achieve a successful move. The manager is developing a plan to ensure all staff attend training on the essential core areas, and ways of promoting NVQ awards. EVIDENCE: The staffing complement is manager; deputy; senior support worker; and nine support workers – all posts being full-time. The normal pattern of cover is three staff on duty on each of the early and late shifts between 7am and 9.15pm, with night cover being one person on waking duty between 9pm and 7.15am – there being 15miniute overlap handovers between shifts. At this visit there were two support worker posts vacant, and active recruitment was taking place. The manager has formed her senior team from people she knew, both the deputy and senior support worker had worked with her over a number of years at the previous home she managed. There are individual staff files with a handy front check-list recording when each item is received such as two written references, previous work history, and proof of identity, Also included
DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 20 is evidence of CRB applications. At this visit the certificates for three staff were still awaited, but ‘Povafirst’ clearance had been received. Staff files had a copy of the induction programme. Staff who spoke with the inspector said they had found the introductory training very useful. One person said – “You do work through each heading and it is explained. You sign to say you have covered it area, but it is okay to say if you didn’t understand first time, you don’t feel bad if you say you need to go over it again.” Staff gave an overview of the courses they have attended so far, including medication and administering rectal diazepam, protection responsibilities, and manual handling. Other core training was booked, including basic first aid and food hygiene. The manager is doing a training profile for each person. She recognises that covering the core topics is a priority, including supporting NVQ training. Requirements have been set on these matters. Both the deputy and the senior support worker have NVQ L2, and were due to start the Level 3 award scheme. Staff who spoke with the inspector said that there is strong teamwork and good appreciation of the management style. One comment was – “It all feels very positive. There is a nice atmosphere and it feels like a ‘home from home’ which I think has been a great help for the guys.” Another person added – “You are encouraged to do things, to see how much (the residents) can do for themselves. It may be the case that they can do a lot more, but haven’t had the chance or need….I can honestly say that all the service users feel at home, and everyone is getting on well together.” The inspector asked about staff contracts. The manager said the company were just finalising a revised version, and that these would be issue to each person soon. The inspector said he would take a closer look at the arrangements for helping residents with their personal money at the next inspection. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 Conduct and Management of the Home
The intended outcomes for Standards 37 – 43 are: 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. Service users benefit from a well run home. Service users benefit from the ethos, leadership and management approach of the home. Service users are confident their views underpin all self-monitoring, review and development by the home. Service users’ rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s policies and procedures. Service users’ rights and best interests are safeguarded by the home’s record keeping policies and procedures. The health, safety and welfare of service users are promoted and protected. Service users benefit from competent and accountable management of the service. The Commission considers Standards 37, 39, and 42 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): Quality in this outcome area is ‘good’. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service that involved looking at the management arrangements; quality monitoring by the company; and health and safety arrangements. All these areas are scored as satisfactory meaning that residents and their families can be confident that this is a well-managed service. One comment about the manager was – “Brenda is very good. She is approachable, and I think has made sure there is a relaxed atmosphere….you feel okay to ask if you’re not sure about something.” EVIDENCE: The successful launch of this new service can be attributed to recruiting a tried and trusted manager at an early stage. She has many years of experience of working in learning disability services in the area, including setting up a home and managing it over a number of years. In turn, she voiced her appreciation for the good framework of support from the owners, including the discretion to appoint staff to the next two senior positions that she knew would successfully complete a strong leadership team. She also has the confidence to appoint
DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 22 care workers with limited previous experience in care knowing that skill can be nurtured where there are the right attitudes. All the evidence is that a strong, mutually supportive team has been established. This small company have adapted and developed a good range of policies and procedures. Of particular note has been the thorough manner they have fulfilled their responsibilities to monitor the service and provide the Commission with ‘monthly reports’. These have been completed and submitted on time using detailed check formats, which show attention to detail and quick problem solving. Other quality monitoring systems are being set up, and have included asking relatives to complete a satisfaction questionnaire. This positively indicates that the company are committed to using worthwhile quality assurance measures. The inspector asked to see a range of safety records and certificates. This included the fire safety log, including the main risk assessment, weekly checks and drills; electrical, gas and water safety certificates; insurance cover; and commissioning certificates. These were all satisfactory. All advice contained in the fire safety inspectors last letter has been followed. Contact has been made with the environmental services to register the home as a food premises and request an initial assessment. The efficient presentation of these records reflects the same high standard of compliance and efficiency shown by the manager throughout this first statutory service assessment. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 23 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 3 2 4 3 3 4 3 5 3 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 3 32 2 33 3 34 3 35 2 36 3 CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 3 3 3 3 3 LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 3 12 2 13 3 14 2 15 3 16 3 17 3 PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Score 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 24 Are there any outstanding requirements from the last inspection? This was the home’s first 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 YA12; YA14 Regulation 16(2)(m) Requirement Develop plans to help residents take part in appropriate educational and leisure opportunities, and keep a record of these activities. Develop a plan to support staff to achieve a recognised qualification at NVQ Level 2 or equivalent awards. The expected target is that 50 of the team have such a qualification. Within a reasonable period of starting at the home, provide staff with adequate training in the core areas, including infection control; basic first aid; food hygiene; handling medication; and infection control. Maintain a record of all staff training. Issue staff with a contract of employment that covers their terms and conditions. Make safe arrangements for the electrical cabling supplying the garden shed. Timescale for action 01/05/07 2 YA32 18(1)(a) 01/05/07 3 YA35 18(1)(c) 01/05/07 4 5 YA38 YA42 17(2)/ Sched 4, para 6(e) 13(4)(a) 28/02/07 31/01/07 DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 25 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 YA31 Good Practice Recommendations Provide staff with a briefing on the role of the General Social Care Council, including the phased programme of registration. DS0000067619.V323035.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 26 Commission for Social Care Inspection Ilford Area Office Ferguson House 113 Cranbrook Road Ilford IG1 4PU 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
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