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Inspection on 24/09/06 for St Johns Cottage

Also see our care home review for St Johns Cottage for more information

This inspection was carried out on 24th September 2006.

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

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

People who live in the home are cared for in a way which respects their individuality, privacy, dignity and choice and promotes their independence. They enjoy living in a homely environment with the support of staff who are caring, committed and enthusiastic in their support.

What has improved since the last inspection?

A programme of refurbishment is in place which has resulted in improvements to the kitchen. The outside of the building was being painted at the time of the inspection.

What the care home could do better:

There should be an effective internal quality assurance system, involving the people who live in the home and based an the cycle of action , planning and review which produces a report to the commission at regular intervals in line with the regulation.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 St Johns Cottage Hospital Road Sevenoaks Kent TN13 3PH Lead Inspector Ruth Burnham Unannounced Inspection 24 September 2006 13:00 St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.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 St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.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. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service St Johns Cottage Address Hospital Road Sevenoaks Kent TN13 3PH 01732 457800 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) www.care-ltd.co.uk CARE (Cottage and Rural Enterprises Ltd) Mrs Karen Louise Meeson Care Home 8 Category(ies) of Learning disability (8) registration, with number of places St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection Brief Description of the Service: St Johns cottage occupies detached premises which were formerly 3 cottages which have been sympathetically converted to provide accommodation for 8 people with a learning disability. The accommodation is arranged on 2 floors, there is no passenger lift. One bedroom is on the ground floor. The registered manager is responsible for the day to day running of the home. Full time and part time care staff are employed who work a rota which includes one member of staff on sleep in duty at night. The home is located within walking distance of shops and other amenities. The town centre is also within walking distance or a short bus ride away. There is a small garden to the rear of the property. Fees range from 502 to 516 pounds per week. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This was an unannounced inspection carried out by one inspector who found that the majority of the national minimum standards had been met or exceeded and that the overall quality of care was excellent. Part of the premises and some records were examined. The inspector was able to talk to 6 service users 1 member of staff, 2 relatives and the manager. All the service users completed and returned surveys prior to the site visit and all were satisfied with the care provided, additional positive feedback was received from other professionals involved in the care of the people who live in the home. Interaction observed during the inspection between staff and service users demonstrated very good practice. The environment is well maintained and furnished and decorated to a reasonable standard. What the service does well: 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. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 6 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 St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 7 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): 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Quality in this outcome area is excellent. This judgment has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. People who may consider moving into the home in the future have clear information upon which to base a judgement and can be confident that their needs will be met. EVIDENCE: The people who live in this home are secure in the expectation that this will be their home for as long as they wish to remain. It is therefore very rare for new residents to move in. There are clear admissions policies and procedures and there is clear information within the statement of purpose and service user guide upon which prospective service users can make a decision whether this would be the right home for them and would meet their needs. Whilst there have been no new service users admitted to the home, residents’ individual needs and aspirations are reviewed in detail annually to ensure that the support provided continues to be at an appropriate level. All residents are provided with clear terms and conditions and the statement of purpose and service user guide which have been reviewed and are produced in a suitable format. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 8 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): 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 Quality in this outcome area is excellent. This judgment has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. People who live in the home are consulted about their care and are well supported to take control of their own lives, they and have a real say in the way the home is run. EVIDENCE: People who live in the home are involved in drawing up their care plans which cover all aspects of personal, social and healthcare needs, those spoken with enjoyed having designated keyworkers to ensure consistency of care. Service users explained how they are able to make choices about their care and are well informed about policies and procedures, activities and services. They are able to participate in the decision-making processes of the home through regular meetings and one to one discussion; they take part in residents meetings on a regular basis and are actively involved in the selection of staff, taking part in interviews. It is evident that this is very much the home of the people who live there with staff providing some support and guidance to enable residents to live life to the full and become as independent as possible. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 9 People who live in the home are protected in all circumstances of daily living through clear risk management processes which provide guidance to staff about how to minimise risk whilst supporting them to achieve as much People who live in the home are consulted and take part in all aspects of running the home. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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): 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17 Quality in this outcome area is excellent. This judgment has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. People who live in the home benefit from a wide variety of lifestyle choices including access to employment with appropriate staff support where needed EVIDENCE: People who live in the home are provided with a wide variety of opportunities for personal development. Independence is maximised by the provision of support to develop life skills through involvement in household tasks including shopping, washing, cleaning and cooking. Service users quality of life is enhanced through support to continue their former activities and to take up further education opportunities wherever possible. They are enabled as far as possible to integrate into community life by the provision of information and access to community facilities and events. Service users are supported and encouraged to pursue their own interests and hobbies, a choice of entertainment is available in the home and all service users benefit from the option of a weeks holiday outside the home which they choose and plan as part of the contract price. They are further supported to access employment opportunities in the local community including local restaurants, leisure centre and stores. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 11 Service users are able to receive visitors at any time, support is provided to enable them to maintain contact with family and friends. Staff interaction with service users was observed during the inspection and was warm and respectful. Service users plan the menu weekly, they prepare meals with support and records were seen and were up to date and evidenced variety and sound nutrition. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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): 18, 19, 20 and 21 Quality in this outcome area is excellent. This judgment has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The health and welfare of people who live in the home is promoted through efficient systems operated by caring and friendly staff. EVIDENCE: People who live in the home are provided with personal support which takes account of individual preferences and ensures that their privacy and dignity is upheld, They benefit from the relaxed atmosphere in the home where routines are flexible and relevant and are agreed with residents. People who need additional specialist support are supported to access this where necessary and residents benefit from the consistency which is ensured through designated key workers. Residents were full of praise for the way staff supported them and it was clear during the inspection that maximum opportunity was available for residents to exercise personal choice in all areas of their lives. People who live in the home benefit from the discreet and sensitive support which is given to enable them to manage their healthcare needs. Records seen indicate that health is regularly monitored and prompt referrals made and access is provided to GPs, dentists, opticians and hospital appointments.. Staff provide support with medication within a risk management framework to ensure the safety and welfare of residents. Consent to medication is obtained St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 13 and recorded and medicines are handled in accordance with recognised guidelines and legislation. People who live in the home benefit from the security of knowing that this is their home for as long as they choose to remain and their needs can continue to be met. Wishes in relation to death are recorded within individual care plans and some staff have received training in bereavement and loss. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 14 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): 22 and 23 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgment has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. People who live in the home can be confident that they are listened to and protected from abuse. EVIDENCE: People who live in the home are listened to and encouraged to offer comment or complaint. The homes complaints procedure has been given and explained to each service user in an appropriate format. People who live in the home are protected through clear policies about responding to suspicion or evidence of abuse including whistle blowing. There are policies and procedures in place to protect service users in relation to their finances. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 15 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, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgment has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The safe and comfortable environment in this home greatly enhances Service Users’ lives. EVIDENCE: People who live in the home benefit from access to ample communal space with a choice of seating areas and a separate dining area. The premises are comfortable bright and cheerful and furnished and decorated to a reasonable standard providing a homely atmosphere. All service users enjoy the privacy of single rooms and one resident’s room has en-suite facilities. There are ample numbers of bathrooms/shower rooms to meet the needs of all the people who live in the home. Service users benefit from access to a small garden, a well equipped laundry and a private visitor’s room. The home has a no smoking policy which has been agreed by all the people who live in the home. Staff are provided with adequate facilities for changing, showering and sleeping-in. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 16 People who live in the home have a choice of lounge areas in addition to the spacious kitchen/diner, the kitchen floor has been repaired since the last inspection. None of the people in this home have physical disabilities, which require specialist equipment or installations. Their safety is promoted by the provision of good laundry facilities which are sited so that soiled articles etc are not carried through food areas St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 17 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): 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 and 36 Quality in this outcome area is excellent. This judgment has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Service users quality of life is enhanced by the support of a well trained and committed staff team. EVIDENCE: People who live in the home are clear about the roles and responsibilities of staff and it was obvious that they enjoy their company and support. They benefit from the skills of staff who are well trained in providing effective care and support for people with learning difficulties, the enthusiasm, commitment and dedication of staff observed during the inspection was impressive, it was a pleasure to witness the interaction between service users and staff as support was provided with respect, warmth and humour. Service users are protected by rigorous recruitment policies and practices which include taking up 2 references, criminal record checks and a thorough interview process which service users are actively involved in. Staff receive regular one to one supervision. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 18 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, 39 and 42 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgment has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. People who live in the home benefit from good management which ensures that the home fulfils it’s stated purpose and meets the needs of the people who live there. There is room for improvement in the home’s quality assurance system. EVIDENCE: People who live in the home benefit from the support of a manager who is competent and experienced, she is in the process of completing the Registered Managers Award. The management approach to the home creates an open, positive and inclusive atmosphere in which people who live there are able to influence the way in which the home is run. There is a service development plan which provides a good basis for an effective quality assurance system to St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 19 be implemented, the manager was reminded that a report must be produced, in which the outcome of the quality assurance system is recorded, and provided to the Commission. There are good systems in place the ensure the safety and security of the people who live there through regular staff training. Safe working practices and safety checks on all equipment and installations at appropriate intervals. St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 20 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 4 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 4 25 3 26 3 27 4 28 4 29 3 30 4 STAFFING Standard No Score 31 3 32 3 33 4 34 4 35 3 36 4 CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 4 4 4 3 3 LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 4 12 4 13 4 14 4 15 4 16 4 17 4 PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Score 4 4 3 3 3 x 2 x x 3 x St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 No Are there any outstanding requirements from the last inspection? STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS This section sets out the actions, which must be taken so that the registered person/s meets the Care Standards Act 2000, Care Homes Regulations 2001 and the National Minimum Standards. The Registered Provider(s) must comply with the given timescales. No. 3. Standard YA39 Regulation 24 Requirement An improvement plan in respect of this requirement has been requested. Timescale for action 31/10/06 RECOMMENDATIONS These recommendations relate to National Minimum Standards and are seen as good practice for the Registered Provider/s to consider carrying out. No. Refer to Standard Good Practice Recommendations St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 22 Commission for Social Care Inspection Maidstone Local Office The Oast Hermitage Court Hermitage Lane Maidstone ME16 9NT 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 St Johns Cottage DS0000024019.V303218.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 23 - 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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