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Inspection on 06/06/07 for Springfield Cottage

Also see our care home review for Springfield Cottage for more information

This inspection was carried out on 6th June 2007.

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

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

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

What the care home does well

Prior to people moving into the home, their needs were assessed. They were consulted about the level and type of care they required and could visit the home to look for themselves at the facilities offered. This gave them an idea of what the home was like prior to admission. Important information needed to support people in every day living was recorded and used to plan the care they required. This helped to personalise care and show staff what they should do to achieve this. The diverse healthcare needs of the residents were monitored. Staff worked with visiting health professionals for the benefit of residents who felt that they received the care and support they needed. Comments made in surveys indicated, "when any changes come my way, results are soon completed and one can`t ask for more than that". Monthly reviews were carried out on residents care plans. These were supplemented by 6 monthly reviews. Some residents could "remember being included in their review". The service offered a range of activities that met peoples` needs and meant that they could enjoy a full and stimulating lifestyle with a variety of options to choose from. They were able to have some say in what activities were provided through the forum of the residents meetings. Residents spoken with commented that they felt there were "more than enough" activities provided. The service was good at making visitors feel welcome. Visitors spoken to said, "we`re always made welcome. They keep us informed by speaking to us when we visit or by ringing us". Information from one of the surveys received indicated, "The home can`t get any better". Meals were well balanced and nutritional, catering for a wide variety of dietary needs of the residents. People spoken to said, "Food very enjoyable" "Plenty to eat, can have seconds if you want". From the two surveys received, both made positive comments about the food. Residents and other people associated with the home said they were satisfied with the service, felt safe and supported. All staff working in the home knew the importance of taking the views of residents seriously and listening and responding to issues raised. The complaints procedure was clearly displayed and residents and visitors had a clear understanding of the procedure. The service has a highly developed recruitment procedure with staffing levels being sufficient to meet the diverse needs of the current residents. The registered person had a good understanding of equality and diversity throughout the recruitment, induction and training process. Residents indicated that they were pleased with both the communal and personal space available to them. All bedrooms showed some level of personalisation and provided residents with "homely surroundings". The written agreement between the Proprietors and the resident states that "The resident may bring small items of furniture which will help them settle in". The home has a group of staff that has worked at the home for a long time. They are enthusiastic about training and some are committed to progressing beyond National Vocational Qualification training at level 2 in care. The stafftraining programme was included in the Training and Development Plan. Staff spoken with said they "felt competent" to carry out their work. Staff training is ongoing with outside agencies offering a variety of packages. Continuous training provides staff with the knowledge to care for residents competently and helps them to understand the diversity of residents needs. A relative commented, "Never been to a better home than Springfield Cottage. All staff excellent, willing to help. Nothing too much trouble. There is a real caring atmosphere and residents are looked after so well". The registered manager was suitably qualified ensuring that there was strong leadership within the staff team. This resulted in a home that was organised and managed efficiently. Another relative commented, "Visited the home over a number of years, the most impressive feature being the warmth and homely atmosphere created by staff" "Always been impressed by the maintenance and the efficient manner in which it is managed". Residents and staff benefited from regular meetings and were informed of any changes planned. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 7Residents said the home was a nice place to live, as one resident said `you`ll not find any better`. They were comfortable and warm. They considered staff to be polite, always there for them and respected them.

What has improved since the last inspection?

Previous inspections have demonstrated that the home is well managed. There were 2 requirements and one recommendations identified on the last inspection. All of these had been attended to and progressed. Additional laundry facilities had been provided and a record of randomly tested water temperatures at outlets had been introduced. An annual arrangement had been set up in respect of Legionella testing. These measures ensured both the health and safety of residents and staff alike.

What the care home could do better:

Suggestions made in respect of the monitoring of some meal records were addressed during the inspection. The manager was to ensure that the content of telephone references was recorded to ensure a correct record of information gained about prospective staff.

CARE HOMES FOR OLDER PEOPLE Springfield Cottage Preston New Road Blackburn Lancs BB2 6PS Lead Inspector Mrs Jennifer M Turner Key Unannounced Inspection 6th June 2007 10:30 X10015.doc Version 1.40 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 Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 2 This is a report of an inspection to assess whether services are meeting the needs of people who use them. The legal basis for conducting inspections is the Care Standards Act 2000 and the relevant National Minimum Standards for this establishment are those for Care Homes for Older People. 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. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Springfield Cottage Address Preston New Road Blackburn Lancs BB2 6PS 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) 01254 264704 01254 264704 Mr David Martin Ms Cheryl Weall Care Home 26 Category(ies) of Old age, not falling within any other category registration, with number (26), Physical disability (1) of places Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: 1. The home is registered for a maximum of 26 service users to include: Up to 26 service users in the category of OP (over 65 years of age, not falling into any other category) requiring personal care. 1 service user in the category of PD (physical disability) requiring personal care. The service should employ a suitably qualified and experienced manager who is registered with the Commission for Social Care Inspection. 16th November 2005 2. Date of last inspection Brief Description of the Service: Springfield Cottage is a care home providing 24-hour personal care and accommodation to 26 older people. The registered provider is Mr David Martin, with Mrs Cheryl Weall being the registered manager. The home is a detached property, set in its own well-maintained grounds. Residents may access the garden area at the front, which has a paved patio area. Seating is provided on the patio area at the entrance to the home and in a wooden summerhouse. To the front and side of the building is a car parking area. There is level access from the home to the grounds. The house is on the outskirts of Blackburn in a quiet residential area. There is public transport nearby. Springfield Cottage is approximately one mile from the centre of Blackburn, where most services and facilities are available. Regular bus services pass the home, with routes to both Blackburn and Preston. The home offers 24 single bedrooms, 10 of which provide en-suite facilities and 1 double bedroom, which has its own en-suite. There are 2 lounge areas, both having views over the front garden, and a separate dining room. Bedrooms are situated on the ground and first floor. The weekly charges at the home range between £376.00 and £396.00. Additional charges are made for hairdressing, private chiropody, newspapers and periodicals over and above those provided, tapes, incontinence pads, over and above what is provided via assessment. Information about Springfield Cottage can be obtained from the home in the form of The Statement of Purpose and Service Users Guide. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. A key unannounced inspection, including a visit to the home, took place on the 06/06/2007 over a seven and a quarter hour period. At the time of the inspection the occupancy level was twenty-five. The proprietor, manager, assistant manager, senior care staff, care staff, the cook, domestic staff, a number of residents and a relative were spoken to. During the course of the inspection, procedures and records were also examined, lunch was taken with the residents, activities were observed and the premises were viewed. Information from a pre inspection questionnaire, two survey forms received from residents and seven survey forms received from relatives, carers and advocates contributed towards the findings. Requirements and Recommendations made from the previous inspection were looked at for progress made. The home was assessed against the National Minimum Standards for Older People. What the service does well: Prior to people moving into the home, their needs were assessed. They were consulted about the level and type of care they required and could visit the home to look for themselves at the facilities offered. This gave them an idea of what the home was like prior to admission. Important information needed to support people in every day living was recorded and used to plan the care they required. This helped to personalise care and show staff what they should do to achieve this. The diverse healthcare needs of the residents were monitored. Staff worked with visiting health professionals for the benefit of residents who felt that they received the care and support they needed. Comments made in surveys indicated, “when any changes come my way, results are soon completed and one can’t ask for more than that”. Monthly reviews were carried out on residents care plans. These were supplemented by 6 monthly reviews. Some residents could “remember being included in their review”. The service offered a range of activities that met peoples’ needs and meant that they could enjoy a full and stimulating lifestyle with a variety of options to choose from. They were able to have some say in what activities were provided through the forum of the residents meetings. Residents spoken with commented that they felt there were “more than enough” activities provided. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 6 The service was good at making visitors feel welcome. Visitors spoken to said, “we’re always made welcome. They keep us informed by speaking to us when we visit or by ringing us”. Information from one of the surveys received indicated, “The home can’t get any better”. Meals were well balanced and nutritional, catering for a wide variety of dietary needs of the residents. People spoken to said, “Food very enjoyable” “Plenty to eat, can have seconds if you want”. From the two surveys received, both made positive comments about the food. Residents and other people associated with the home said they were satisfied with the service, felt safe and supported. All staff working in the home knew the importance of taking the views of residents seriously and listening and responding to issues raised. The complaints procedure was clearly displayed and residents and visitors had a clear understanding of the procedure. The service has a highly developed recruitment procedure with staffing levels being sufficient to meet the diverse needs of the current residents. The registered person had a good understanding of equality and diversity throughout the recruitment, induction and training process. Residents indicated that they were pleased with both the communal and personal space available to them. All bedrooms showed some level of personalisation and provided residents with “homely surroundings”. The written agreement between the Proprietors and the resident states that “The resident may bring small items of furniture which will help them settle in”. The home has a group of staff that has worked at the home for a long time. They are enthusiastic about training and some are committed to progressing beyond National Vocational Qualification training at level 2 in care. The stafftraining programme was included in the Training and Development Plan. Staff spoken with said they “felt competent” to carry out their work. Staff training is ongoing with outside agencies offering a variety of packages. Continuous training provides staff with the knowledge to care for residents competently and helps them to understand the diversity of residents needs. A relative commented, “Never been to a better home than Springfield Cottage. All staff excellent, willing to help. Nothing too much trouble. There is a real caring atmosphere and residents are looked after so well”. The registered manager was suitably qualified ensuring that there was strong leadership within the staff team. This resulted in a home that was organised and managed efficiently. Another relative commented, “Visited the home over a number of years, the most impressive feature being the warmth and homely atmosphere created by staff” “Always been impressed by the maintenance and the efficient manner in which it is managed”. Residents and staff benefited from regular meetings and were informed of any changes planned. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 7 Residents said the home was a nice place to live, as one resident said ‘you’ll not find any better’. They were comfortable and warm. They considered staff to be polite, always there for them and respected them. 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. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 8 DETAILS OF INSPECTOR FINDINGS CONTENTS Choice of Home (Standards 1–6) Health and Personal Care (Standards 7-11) Daily Life and Social Activities (Standards 12-15) Complaints and Protection (Standards 16-18) Environment (Standards 19-26) Staffing (Standards 27-30) Management and Administration (Standards 31-38) Scoring of Outcomes Statutory Requirements Identified During the Inspection Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 9 Choice of Home The intended outcomes for Standards 1 – 6 are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Prospective service users have the information they need to make an informed choice about where to live. Each service user has a written contract/ statement of terms and conditions with the home. No service user moves into the home without having had his/her needs assessed and been assured that these will be met. Service users and their representatives know that the home they enter will meet their needs. Prospective service users and their relatives and friends have an opportunity to visit and assess the quality, facilities and suitability of the home. Service users assessed and referred solely for intermediate care are helped to maximise their independence and return home. The Commission considers Standards 3 and 6 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 3:6 Quality in this outcome area is Excellent This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. A comprehensive assessment procedure was carried out prior to people moving into the home. This meant that their diverse needs were known and met. EVIDENCE: Three residents files were viewed. One was the most recent admission to the home. Assessments from social workers and health service personnel were evident on files examined. A member of the management team made a pre admission visit to prospective residents. This visit took place, either in the persons own home or in hospital. Residents confirmed being visited. Copies of these assessments were viewed on the files examined. Residents said that they had been given a copy of the Statement of Purpose and Service Users Guide, and these showed the fees. Any risk assessments required were completed. Residents spoken with said either they or a member of their family Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 10 had visited the home prior to a decision being taken about residency. The person who had recently been admitted had previously undertaken periods of respite care at Springfield Cottage so had prior knowledge of the home. Another person had come from a nearby home that had closed as it was “in the same area of town and I heard it had a good reputation”. The home does not offer Intermediate Care. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 11 Health and Personal Care The intended outcomes for Standards 7 – 11 are: 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. The service user’s health, personal and social care needs are set out in an individual plan of care. Service users’ health care needs are fully met. Service users, where appropriate, are responsible for their own medication, and are protected by the home’s policies and procedures for dealing with medicines. Service users feel they are treated with respect and their right to privacy is upheld. Service users are assured that at the time of their death, staff will treat them and their family with care, sensitivity and respect. The Commission considers Standards 7, 8, 9 and 10 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 7:8:9:10 Quality in this outcome area is Excellent. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Residents’ diverse healthcare needs were identified and met. Personal care was delivered in a way that promoted residents’ privacy and dignity. EVIDENCE: Care plans seen, provided very good and detailed information to staff on the actions to be taken to meet the diverse health, personal and social care needs of the residents. Records showed that care plans were reviewed on a monthly basis by a Senior Carer, and every 6 months by either the manager or deputy manager. The resident or a relative, in addition to a representative of the home, signed the reviews. Staff said that if a relative was unable to attend a review they were shown the results at their next visit and if in agreement were asked to sign the review or make additional comments. A relative indicated in a completed questionnaire, “A care plan is in place and is updated monthly as required, and I am notified of any changes that have occurred.” People also Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 12 said that their views were taken into consideration. A variety of risk assessments were completed and staff said that they felt confident when dealing with residents’ diverse needs. Information in the pre inspection questionnaire and from records seen, showed that arrangements were in place to ensure that residents had access to specialist medical, nursing, and chiropody services according to need. Hearing and sight tests were arranged for individual residents when required. A physiotherapist who visited weekly, and held sessions for chair exercises and relaxation, was in attendance at the home during the inspection. Residents and relatives spoken with felt that the care offered by staff was good. One resident commented, “Girls are good to us and nothing is too much bother”, another wrote in a questionnaire, “I would say Springfield Cottage excels in caring for us”. Records showed that all residents completed a “Declaration of wishes” in respect of the administration of medication as part of the admission procedure. The resident or an advocate and the manager signed this. For those residents able and wishing to self-administer their own medication, lockable facilities were available in bedrooms for safe storage. Records showed that medication ordered, received, administered and returned were maintained and signed accordingly. The Medication records of two residents were spot-checked. All medication was correctly stored and designated staff were responsible for administering the medication. The Medical Device Alert relating to Lancing Devices was discussed. The home has the relevant information, but District Nurses deal with all injections. Residents and relatives had recently been involved with discussing an application for a “Dignity In Care Grant” that had been awarded to the home. People said they felt that their suggestions had been listened to. There were no shared bedrooms, so people could take telephone calls in private if they wished. There was evidence that some bedrooms had “jack plugs” installed and some residents had their own mobile telephone. A pay phone was seen in the dining room. Four telephone extensions were sited throughout the home in addition to a portable office telephone that was available for residents to receive incoming call from relatives and friends. People said they could speak to their relatives in the privacy of their own room and not be disturbed. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 13 Daily Life and Social Activities The intended outcomes for Standards 12 - 15 are: 12. 13. 14. 15. Service users find the lifestyle experienced in the home matches their expectations and preferences, and satisfies their social, cultural, religious and recreational interests and needs. Service users maintain contact with family/ friends/ representatives and the local community as they wish. Service users are helped to exercise choice and control over their lives. Service users receive a wholesome appealing balanced diet in pleasing surroundings at times convenient to them. The Commission considers all of the above key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 12:13:14:15 Quality in this outcome area is Excellent This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Residents’ dietary, social, cultural and spiritual needs were being met. They were able to make choices and decisions about their life at the home so that their lifestyle met their preferences. EVIDENCE: The notice boards in the main lounge and in the hallway displayed a variety of information in relation to activities and events taking place both inside and outside of the home. The minutes of the six monthly residents meetings showed that a wide variety of topics were discussed including activities and social events. Staff spoken with confirmed the diverse range of activities available both inside and outside of the home. There were some very good details in the care plans about residents’ individual routines and social activity. Residents spoken to said they were able to make choices and were happy with the way that their lives were lived. People said they could use their rooms as and when they liked. It was evident from the daily records that residents were offered the opportunity to go out whenever they wished. Spiritual needs were Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 14 met by Spiritual Leaders visiting the home on a regular basis to offer the Sacrament. Visitors spoken with said that they were made welcome at any reasonable time. They could see people in private in their room or in the green lounge. If they had travelled a distance they were offered the opportunity to have a meal with their relative. Information relating to the visiting policy was written in the Statement of Purpose and Service Users Guide. The deputy manager administered the pension of two residents. The inspector examined records of financial transactions. Some people managed their own financial affairs whilst some had their affairs handled by solicitors. Information relating to the Advocacy Service was available. A tour of the home showed that some residents had brought their own personal items with them to personalise their rooms. Menus submitted with the pre inspection questionnaire and those available in the home showed that a balanced diet was being offered. There was a fourweek cycle of menus with a hot meal offered at both lunch and teatime. Alternatives to the menu were also specified. Residents could have their meals in their rooms if they wished but were encouraged to eat in the dining room for the social interaction. Drinks were served with every meal and also in-between times. The meal on the day of inspection was nicely presented and looked appetising. The atmosphere in the dining room was pleasant and unhurried. Staff made sure that those residents with poor sight were told what food items were on their plate. Any assistance needed was offered in a discrete way. Suggestions made in respect of the monitoring of some meal records were addressed during the inspection. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 15 Complaints and Protection The intended outcomes for Standards 16 - 18 are: 16. 17. 18. Service users and their relatives and friends are confident that their complaints will be listened to, taken seriously and acted upon. Service users’ legal rights are protected. Service users are protected from abuse. The Commission considers Standards 16 and 18 the key standards to be. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 16:18 Quality in this outcome area is Excellent This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Residents were protected from abuse and had access to the homes complaints procedure. EVIDENCE: A Complaints Procedure was displayed on the notice board. It was also included in the Statement of Purpose and Service Users Guide. Appropriate information was included. Residents said that they were “confident to approach a member of the management team if they had any concerns” and they “would contact their family or a Social Worker if the home did not sort things out”. A complaints book was available and there had been no complaints raised since the last inspection. The manager said that any concerns of an internal nature were dealt with quickly and proficiently. Relatives said that “they knew who to talk to” if they had any concerns. Compliments and letters of appreciation were directed toward the members of staff concerned. Various policies and procedures relating to the Protection of Vulnerable adults were discussed with staff. They were confident in respect of their roles in respect of abuse issues. Copies of the Whistle blowing procedure, the policy relating to gifts and information relating to the Protection of Vulnerable Adults Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 16 were retained in the staff handbook. Staff spoken with were aware of their content. There was also a copy of the Blackburn with Darwen adult abuse procedure. Records showed that the manager and staff had completed appropriate training, organised by the Local Authority, relating to the Protection of Vulnerable Adults. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 17 Environment The intended outcomes for Standards 19 – 26 are: 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. Service users live in a safe, well-maintained environment. Service users have access to safe and comfortable indoor and outdoor communal facilities. Service users have sufficient and suitable lavatories and washing facilities. Service users have the specialist equipment they require to maximise their independence. Service users’ own rooms suit their needs. Service users live in safe, comfortable bedrooms with their own possessions around them. Service users live in safe, comfortable surroundings. The home is clean, pleasant and hygienic. The Commission considers Standards 19 and 26 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 19:26 Quality in this outcome area is Excellent. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Equipment provided meant that the diverse needs of the client group were met. The home was warm, clean and comfortable with a good standard of hygiene being achieved. This ensured that residents lived in a safe environment. EVIDENCE: Prior to admission people are told that there is a “No Smoking” policy. Anyone who does smoke is made aware that they can do so under the covered porch at the front entrance. The home’s Fire Risk Assessment was seen. This was reviewed annually. Staff had signed the back of the document indicating that they had read and understood it. Fire exit routes were identified. The maintenance and repairs book was seen and work carried out linked in with Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 18 the homes Business Plan. Staff said that they inserted any jobs into the book that they felt needed attention. The grounds were well maintained and a number of residents were enjoying sitting outside in the new summerhouse. Guards continued to be fitted onto radiators. Examination of risk assessments showed that all the radiators assessed as being “high risk” had received a guard. All bedrooms had been fitted with radiator guards and a further three were waiting to be fitted at the time of the inspection. Random water outlets were tested by the inspector and were within the recommended temperature range. Appropriate records were seen in respect of stored water being free from the risk of Legionella. An extra area had been provided to increase the area of the laundry facility. This provided extra space for extra washing and drying facilities. Equipment in the laundry was sufficient to meet the needs of the home. From the pre inspection questionnaire and from documentation seen, policies and procedures were in place in respect of the control of infection. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 19 Staffing The intended outcomes for Standards 27 – 30 are: 27. 28. 29. 30. Service users’ needs are met by the numbers and skill mix of staff. Service users are in safe hands at all times. Service users are supported and protected by the home’s recruitment policy and practices. Staff are trained and competent to do their jobs. The Commission consider all the above are key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 27:28:29:30 Quality in this outcome area is Excellent This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Staff were recruited using current guidance and received appropriate training. This meant that the diverse needs of the residents were met. EVIDENCE: From observation and from staff records received with the pre inspection questionnaire, there were sufficient numbers of staff on duty to meet the diverse needs of the residents. Staffing levels were increased every fourth week when the medication was delivered and also whenever extra entertainment was organised. Members of the management team also provided management hours. On some days they were supernumerary to the care staff team. There was a Cook on duty each day and a cleaner on duty during the weekdays. There was a duty rota, which showed the name of staff and the hours they worked each day. Of the eighteen care staff, records showed that fourteen had completed the National Vocational Qualification at level 2 or above (77 ). Two staff were due to register for the course. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 20 The files of three staff members recruited since the previous inspection were viewed. All prospective employees completed an application form and had a face-to-face interview. A Criminal Records Bureau clearance was completed. A POVA First check was completed prior to employment commencing. Two written references were requested. Where a record showed a verbal reference had been obtained it was suggested that the content of the conversation was recorded fully. Staff confirmed that they had received job descriptions, terms and conditions of employment and a copy of the General Social Care Council Code of Conduct. Equality and Diversity issues were addressed initially throughout the recruitment procedure From reading records and talking with staff, induction training, based on the Skills for Care Standards was offered. Training records were available to examine and showed a variety of training being offered. Staff said that training needs were identified during their supervision periods. Staff said that District Nurses sometimes came to talk with them about specialist areas. Training was evidenced in the training and financial plan. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 Management and Administration The intended outcomes for Standards 31 – 38 are: 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. Service users live in a home which is run and managed by a person who is fit to be in charge, of good character and able to discharge his or her responsibilities fully. Service users benefit from the ethos, leadership and management approach of the home. The home is run in the best interests of service users. Service users are safeguarded by the accounting and financial procedures of the home. Service users’ financial interests are safeguarded. Staff are appropriately supervised. 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 and staff are promoted and protected. The Commission considers Standards 31, 33, 35 and 38 the key standards to be inspected. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 31:33:35:38 Quality in this outcome area is Excellent This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The home was run in an open and transparent way. This meant that the home was run in the best interests of the people who lived there. There were good management systems in place that protected the health, safety and well being of the diverse resident group. EVIDENCE: The registered manager had obtained the National Vocational Qualification at level 4 and the Registered Managers Award. She kept herself up to date by reading journals and attending training seminars. Members of a well-qualified and experienced management team supported her. Carers, residents and Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 22 visitors could approach any of the management team if they had any queries or concerns. Lines of Organisational responsibility appeared in the Statement of Purpose. Written comments seen, from residents, staff and visitors gave an overall view of a well run home where everybody felt included. Records showed that the management team were committed to Quality Assurance. In addition to the Investors In People Award, it is an Enhanced Quality Assured home with Blackburn with Darwen Council. From discussion with residents, their comments are sought in respect of the development of services within the home. Records showed that comments raised in service users surveys were addressed, and from these the management team developed a Quality Assurance programme and annual development plan. Although relatives administered resident’s finances, records maintained in the home were seen in respect of the handling of resident’s pocket money. These were recorded, kept and administered correctly. They were also kept securely and appropriate signatures obtained when any financial transactions took place. Training records evidenced that staff members had participated in training relating to safe working practices. Infection control procedures were available. Records showed that regular servicing of equipment takes place by authorised and qualified contractors. Cleaning materials were stored safely. The reporting of accidents was accurately recorded. The registered person felt that the home complied with relevant legislation. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.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 Older People 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 2 3 4 5 6 ENVIRONMENT Standard No Score 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 X X 4 X X N/A HEALTH AND PERSONAL CARE Standard No Score 7 4 8 4 9 4 10 4 11 x DAILY LIFE AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Standard No Score 12 4 13 4 14 3 15 4 COMPLAINTS AND PROTECTION Standard No Score 16 4 17 X 18 3 3 x X X X X X 3 STAFFING Standard No Score 27 4 28 4 29 3 30 3 MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION Standard No 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 Score 4 X 4 X 4 X X 4 Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 24 Are there any outstanding requirements from the last inspection? No STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS This section sets out the actions, which must be taken so that the registered person/s meets the Care Standards Act 2000, Care Homes Regulations 2001 and the National Minimum Standards. The Registered Provider(s) must comply with the given timescales. No. Standard Regulation Requirement Timescale for action RECOMMENDATIONS These recommendations relate to National Minimum Standards and are seen as good practice for the Registered Provider/s to consider carrying out. No. 1. Refer to Standard OP29 Good Practice Recommendations The manager was to ensure that the content of telephone references were recorded. Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 25 Commission for Social Care Inspection North Lancashire Area Office 2nd Floor, Unit 1, Tustin Court Port Way Preston PR2 2YQ National Enquiry Line: Telephone: 0845 015 0120 or 0191 233 3323 Textphone: 0845 015 2255 or 0191 233 3588 Email: enquiries@csci.gsi.gov.uk Web: www.csci.org.uk © This report is copyright Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI) and may only be used in its entirety. Extracts may not be used or reproduced without the express permission of CSCI Springfield Cottage DS0000005835.V332210.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 26 - 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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