Inspection on 13/10/06 for The Old School House

This inspection was carried out on 13th October 2006.

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

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

Other inspections for this house

The Old School House 26/03/08

The Old School House 26/01/06

The Old School House 23/08/05

The Old School House 28/02/05

The Old School House 15/06/04

The Old School House 19/02/04

The Old School House 23/09/03

Similar services:

Thorndene

Insight - Eastchurch

Southfields

Magenta

Seabourne House

33 St John`s Church Road

Dovedale Court

Lyncol House

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

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 The Old School House The Old School House Church Lane New Romney Kent TN28 8ES Lead Inspector Geoff Senior Unannounced Inspection 13th October 2006 09:30 The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.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 The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.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. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service The Old School House Address The Old School House Church Lane New Romney Kent TN28 8ES 01797 366477 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) Canterbury Oast Trust Mr Andrew Alan Nunn Care Home 8 Category(ies) of Learning disability (8) registration, with number of places The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: 1. The 2 residents with physical disabilities should also have learning disabilities 26th January 2006 Date of last inspection Brief Description of the Service: The Old School House is registered as a Care Home for up to eight adults with a learning disability. This may include two people who, in addition to a learning disability also have a significant physical disability. The Canterbury Oast Trust is the registered Provider. Mr A Nunn is the registered manager in day-to-day control of the Home. The home is a large modern detached property set in a residential area of the town of New Romney. The accommodation comprises eight single bedrooms for resident’s use. There is a large lounge and kitchen dining/room providing communal day space. Service users may also access the well-maintained and partially enclosed garden to the rear of the house. Car parking is available to the rear and side of the property. Local facilities (shops, pub, GP, church and post office) are all within walking distance. Weekly fees are £834 per week. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. The inspection was unannounced and was undertaken on 13/10/2006. The inspector met and spent time with the manager and with two staff on duty. The opportunity to discuss the service users’ experiences and opinions of the home was limited by their involvement in other activities and inclination to communicate with the Inspector or not. Those that did respond indicated that they liked the home and staff and had plenty to do. The inspector was able to observe throughout the visit, the staff’s attention to the service users’ needs, their patient, friendly and respectful manner and their treatment of each service user as an individual. The Inspector viewed the premises and inspected a range of records. The inspector was able to speak with and note the comments of family members in conversations after the site visit. The responses were generally supportive of the service offered but also included an area for consideration; available drivers at the weekend. They confirmed inclusion in the planning and review process and opportunity to voice opinion. Comments from parents include: “100 pleased that X is at the home. The staff are friendly, welcoming and helpful in every way” “Residents are encouraged to stand up and express themselves” “It’s an open and honest, transparent, home. What you see is what you get.” “Staff go out of their way and beyond duty to give the residents a good time” One recommendation was made. It relates to the frequency of staff supervision sessions. What the service does well: The Old School House provides a caring and supportive environment for the service users. There is a range of activities available based on the individual and collective needs of the group. These include activities at home, trips out and attendance at in-house education and social facilities. The staff work positively with the service users helping them to communicate their needs and develop skills and confidence. Service users views and opinions are considered. There is good leadership in the home and staff development opportunities within the company to identify and follow further study/training and career paths The home enables service users to maintain appropriate links with families, friends and significant others. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 6 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 Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.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 The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 2 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. There is a system for pre admission and ongoing assessment of prospective service users to ensure mutual benefit and compatibility of the placement. Residents and their families know that goals and aspirations will be supported by the home. Residents are aware, as far as possible, of their roles and responsibilities in the home and know that their independence will be supported. EVIDENCE: The Service user group is generally well established with no recent admissions. Parents confirmed their involvement in the admission process. Visiting to look round and meet and spend time with the existing residents and staff and view the accommodation. The Trust admission process would then be initiated. This includes gathering information from all relevant parties before a decision is made about the permanency of the placement. Every effort is made to ensure that the move to The Old School House would be appropriate, mutually beneficial and support needs could be met. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 9 Individual Needs and Choices The intended outcomes for Standards 6 – 10 are: 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. Service users know their assessed and changing needs and personal goals are reflected in their individual Plan. Service users make decisions about their lives with assistance as needed. Service users are consulted on, and participate in, all aspects of life in the home. Service users are supported to take risks as part of an independent lifestyle. Service users know that information about them is handled appropriately, and that their confidences are kept. The Commission considers Standards 6, 7 and 9 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 6,7,9. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service Service user plans are clear, accessible and identify the needs of the resident group. Staff have a good understanding of resident’s rights and Service users are enabled to make decisions affecting their daily lives. Risks are assessed positively. EVIDENCE: Service user care plans contain detail on physical and social needs, health care, medical information and behavioural guidelines. Service users family and representatives are encouraged to be involved in the formulation of care plans and participate in the regular reviews. Service user parents were contacted and were positive in their opinions, one commented that: “x settled very quickly and has made terrific progress. Staff are so good- always available and keen /happy to involve parents.” The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 10 The service users are encouraged to verbalise opinions and are consulted whenever appropriate and possible. There is a structure to the weekdays but routines remain flexible. Decisions are made and choices determined on a daily basis. Staff were observed interacting with the service users in a friendly and nonpatronising manner and efforts were made to include them in any interactions. The management undertakes and records where potentially hazardous activities are identified or planned so that service users can participate in chosen activities with appropriate support. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 11 Lifestyle The intended outcomes for Standards 11 - 17 are: 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. Service users have opportunities for personal development. Service users are able to take part in age, peer and culturally appropriate activities. Service users are part of the local community. Service users engage in appropriate leisure activities. Service users have appropriate personal, family and sexual relationships. Service users’ rights are respected and responsibilities recognised in their daily lives. Service users are offered a healthy diet and enjoy their meals and mealtimes. The Commission considers Standards 12, 13, 15, 16 and 17 the key standards to be inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 12,13,15,16,17. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service Service users’ days are, for the most part, occupied with things they like to do. Staff endeavour to ensure these remain relevant to the developmental needs of the individual. Daily routines promote individual skills and responsibilities. Service users are involved in the choice and preparation of a varied and balanced menu. EVIDENCE: Staff and parents confirmed the positive value of the educational and leisure activities on offer at the OSH. Comments were received stating how much particular individuals enjoy their days at the ‘Farm’ or Crafts. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 12 A written programme of activity is displayed in the office. The programme includes individual, group, in house and community based activity. There is a balance of social, educational and physical activity. Some of the programmes include independent living skills training. Daily records confirm involvement or give reason for non-implementation of the programmes.. The home has use of a minibus for transporting service users to and from trips out and social venues. One comment from a family member ,”wishful thinking and not a complaint”, was that ; more drivers on duty at the weekend would lessen the chances of outings being postponed or cancelled. The Inspection Officer spoke with service users present at the time of the inspection. One enjoys a considerable amount of involvement in determining how and where her time is to be spent whilst the other was able to confirm his enjoyment of the day care activities and a recent holiday on the Norfolk Broads. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 13 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. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service Service users are treated with respect and their right to privacy respected. Healthcare needs are kept under review and appointments with health care agencies attended as required. Medication systems and storage were satisfactory and up to date. EVIDENCE: The health care needs of the service users are monitored and addressed. Health issues are identified, documented and acted upon with advice from specialists. Additional equipment and facilities are assessed and provided where service users have changing levels of need. Medication storage and administration appeared to be satisfactory and up to date. Good storage and key security. Clear and up to date records. No overstocks. The home has policies and procedures in place and staff administering medication are offered training and are competency assessed. Both staff spoken to indicated an awareness and adherence to medication practice and procedures. Parent comments included an example of staff The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 14 assisting health care agencies determine appropriate levels by monitoring the effect of changes in dosage and medication. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 15 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): 22.23. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service Service users views and concerns are listened to and acted upon. Systems are in place to promote and maintain protection from abuse. EVIDENCE: There is a ‘Trust’ complaints procedure in place, which is also available in ‘widget’ format. The Manager reported that he operates an ‘open door’ policy and service users are encouraged to interact and voice concerns and ideas to staff at all levels. The Manager confirmed that policies relating to Adult protection, whistle blowing and restraint and guidelines available to staff. The manager reported that all staff have attended Adult Protection training. Family members spoken to are aware of, and would not hesitate to use, the complaints procedure. They would approach the Manager first to resolve the problem. Resident concerns are noted in a dedicated file and actions recorded. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 16 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): 24.30 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. The premises appear to be generally well maintained, clean and hygienic. The home provides a comfortable environment in which to live and work. EVIDENCE: At the time of inspection visit the home appeared to be clean, tidy and free of undue odours. There is a generally good standard of décor and furnishings in the communal and private areas. Service user rooms, seen at this and previous visits, are comfortably furnished and personalised according to occupant needs and preference. The service users are free to come and go within and outside the house subject to risk assessments and security. Maintenance and safety checks are undertaken by the management. Necessary repairs are effected without undue delay. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.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): 32,34,35. Quality in this outcome area is adequate. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Recruitment practices provide for the protection of service users. Staff are supported to access training courses to enable them to work more effectively with the service users. It was recommended that the Manager reviews the frequency of staff supervision sessions in line with the NMS recommended levels. EVIDENCE: There is a positive and mutually supportive team working a rota that ensures sufficient members of staff on duty at the home during the day at the home or supporting various activities. Staff are encouraged and supported to attend statutory and service specific training courses as well as NVQ care at appropriate levels. The management indicated a good awareness of the need to ensure adequate checks are made on all potential staff to determine suitability and protect the Service Users. Recruitment/induction and probation procedures are in place. Records seen indicated that the frequency of staff supervision sessions would benefit from review in line with NMS recommendations. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.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): 37,39,42. Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service The home is well run with an ethos of inclusion, support and development. The health, safety and welfare of those who live and work in the home appears to be promoted and protected. EVIDENCE: It appeared from discussion and observation that the Manager is approachable and supportive. He operates an open door policy and frequently meets with staff individually and collectively. An open and inclusive atmosphere appears to have been established within the Home. The Inspector was assured that the service users views are actively sought in all matters relating to their lifestyle and daily routine at the Home. Service user and staff meetings are a regular feature and service users are encouraged to voice their opinions at any time. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 19 The home is regularly visited by a representative of the organisation not directly involved with its management and reports submitted in accordance with Regulation 26. The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.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 X 2 3 3 X 4 X 5 X INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 Score CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS Standard No Score 22 3 23 3 ENVIRONMENT Standard No Score 24 3 25 X 26 X 27 X 28 X 29 X 30 3 STAFFING Standard No Score 31 X 32 3 33 X 34 3 35 3 36 2 CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 3 3 X 3 x LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 X 12 3 13 3 14 X 15 3 16 3 17 3 PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Score 3 3 3 X 3 X 3 X X 3 X The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 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 YA36 Good Practice Recommendations Manager to ensure the frequency of supervision is in line with NMS The Old School House DS0000023565.V300679.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. 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