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Inspection on 20/07/06 for The Saltings

Also see our care home review for The Saltings for more information

This inspection was carried out on 20th July 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.

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

What the care home does well

The Manager and staff team appear to have established a friendly, welcoming and supportive atmosphere in the home. The service users are encouraged to participate in the life of the home and make use of the local facilities and amenities. They are able to balance busy days with more relaxed periods Service users appeared relaxed and cheerful in their home. Conversations with staff indicated that there is a good team spirit and morale is high. Service users views and opinions are considered. The Management respond positively to incidents and directives.

What has improved since the last inspection?

The service continues to improve and develop. The Manager and team continue to look at the support and care that is provided and innovate and further develop in all areas. The in-house day care facility is well utilised with plans to further improve the service offered to residents of both homes. Mrs Campbell has completed NVQ level 4 care and management training and is awaiting final assessment

What the care home could do better:

The home provides a good service with sensitive care and support. A previous inspection reported that the manager is working towards delegation and sharing of tasks to senior staff. From observations, and comments received, this should be further developed to clarify roles and responsibilities particularly during the proprietors` absence. There were no requirements or recommendations identified at this visit.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 The Saltings 7 The Saltings Littlestone New Romney Kent TN28 8AE Lead Inspector Geoff Senior Unannounced Inspection 20 & 24th July 2006 10:00 th The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service The Saltings Address 7 The Saltings Littlestone New Romney Kent TN28 8AE 01797 366216 01797 366216 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) Mr Stephen Antony Campbell Mrs Eileen Mary Campbell Mr Stephen Antony Campbell Mrs Eileen Mary Campbell Care Home 3 Category(ies) of Learning disability (3) registration, with number of places The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection 2nd February 2006 Brief Description of the Service: The Saltings is registered to provide accommodation for a maximum of 3 adults with a learning disability. The Registered Providers, Mr and Mrs Campbell, are in day-to-day control of the Home. They are supported by 4 members of staff. The property is situated in a cul-de-sac in a residential area of Littlestone. Accommodation comprises: 3 single bedrooms, one with en-suite facilities, a quiet room and bathroom on the first floor. The Service users have use of the lounge, dining room, kitchen and WC on the ground floor. The garden is accessible to the resident service users. The Home provides transport for the service users to access social, educational and recreational venues. The seafront promenade and beach and other local amenities are within walking distance. Mr and Mrs Campbell also operate another home in the locality. The service users may, on occasion, mix socially and for day activities. The reported fees are £790 per week. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 the 20th and 24th July 2006. In the course of the two days the inspector met and spent time with the staff on duty and a service user who was present at the time of inspection.. As noted above, the service users of the two homes operated by the Campbells mix socially and on occasion for day activities and holiday trips. This was the case during the visit to The Beaches as a Saltings resident ‘popped in’ and joined in the general discussion as well as expressing his view about the Saltings. He was positive in his comment and indicated that he liked the home and staff and felt safe and well cared for. Two of the service users were out at the day centre. It was noted at a previous inspection that their level of functioning and communication limited the opportunity to fully discuss their experiences and opinions of the home. The Inspector viewed the premises and inspected a range of records; care plans, daily records. Some records were not available for inspection as the Provider was on holiday. The absence of Mr and Mrs Campbell not only meant an absence of management but also a reduction of support available as they are very much ‘hands on’ owners. It appeared initially that the subsequent juggling of resources to cover both homes would be unsettling to the service users. The Inspector was assured however that this is not the case and the mixing of staff and service users causes no distress. There were no service user family members available for comment. The inspector was however able to speak with and note the comments of care managers for two of the service users. The response was generally positive and supportive of the service offered. What the service does well: The Manager and staff team appear to have established a friendly, welcoming and supportive atmosphere in the home. The service users are encouraged to participate in the life of the home and make use of the local facilities and amenities. They are able to balance busy days with more relaxed periods Service users appeared relaxed and cheerful in their home. Conversations with staff indicated that there is a good team spirit and morale is high. Service users views and opinions are considered. The Management respond positively to incidents and directives. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 Pre placement assessment, and care plan guidelines assist staff in supporting service user needs and aspirations. Staff showed a good understanding of service user support needs. EVIDENCE: There have been no recent admissions to the home. A previous inspection reported that, in the event of a referral, Mr Mrs Campbell would meet with the prospective service user, prior to admission, in their current accommodation or other familiar environment. Pre-placement assessments would be undertaken and written documentation obtained from the previous placement. The service would not be offered to any prospective service user unless their needs had been fully assessed and a decision made as to the mutual suitability of the placement. Compatibility with the existing group would also need to be assessed prior to placement. A prospective service user would be given opportunity to visit, meet and spend time with the existing service user and staff and stay overnight before any decisions on the placement are made. Staff indicated, at this visit, a good understanding of support needs and a very positive, friendly and relaxed interaction between service users and staff was observed. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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. The care plans and support guidelines are generally clear and accessible, enabling the staff to provide for the service users needs. Staff have a good understanding of resident’s rights. Residents are supported to make decisions and are offered opportunities to participate in the life of the home. EVIDENCE: Care Plans, derived from initial and on-going assessments have been drawn up by Care Management, the home and, where possible, the Service User. Risk is regarded by the management as part of living within the home and staff on duty expressed a clear understanding of a residents’ right to take responsible risks. Written risk assessments have been undertaken where potential hazards are identified. Service users are encouraged to make decisions on a day-to-day basis regarding their general routine and lifestyle. One resident manages his The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 10 own finances with support from staff, whilst others’ affairs are dealt with by the Local Authority Client Finance officer. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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. There is a full and varied programme of activity and Service users’ days are, for the most part, meaningfully occupied. Daily routines promote individual skills and responsibilities. Service users are involved in the choice and preparation of a varied and balanced menu EVIDENCE: Staff have worked positively with the service users to establish interests, likes and dislikes. They are supported and joined by the management in providing a range of formal and informal activities for leisure and educational purposes. At the time of the visit two service users were at a Day Opportunities Centre. One spoke of a recent holiday to Devon, his own particular interests and pastimes and his routine and lifestyle at The Saltings. It appears to suit him very well as he has a lot of say in what goes on. Staff spoken with indicated that the The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 12 continuing value of any given activity is frequently reviewed and changes made where appropriate. The inspector was pleased to note the provision of a ‘craft room’ in the grounds of the ‘sister’ home where service users may be supported in a variety of pastimes. This may be further developed to provide a sensory element to the activities. The home has the use of a vehicle for transporting service users to their chosen destination. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 generally satisfactory and up to date. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 14 EVIDENCE: Service users are assisted or prompted in matters of personal care and hygiene according to their individual needs and abilities. Daily routines (i.e. rising and retiring) are flexible around their own activities and preferences. None of the current service users are able to independently manage their own healthcare arrangements or medication. Staff are expected to monitor and report on the general health and well being of individuals on a daily basis and record any changes and forthcoming appointments. A care manager confirmed that the home is working cooperatively with appropriate agencies to address the change in circumstances and support needs of and individual. It was reported that all staff have attended medication training that satisfies the requirements of the standard. Storage and records appeared to be satisfactory and up to date. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 Residents are encouraged and enabled to state their views and express concerns in formal and informal settings. Staff have training relevant to the management of challenging behaviours and protection of the vulnerable EVIDENCE: Mrs Campbell previously reported that she endeavours to maintain a smallscale ‘family’ environment in which service users feel able to freely express any concerns or discontent. This was confirmed during conversation with one of the service users. A complaints policy and procedure is now available in the home’s policy folder. It was reported that staff recently attended Adult protection training. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 There is a good standard of décor and cleanliness within the home. It provides a homely and welcoming 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 good standard of décor and furnishings in the communal and private areas. The Saltings has a homely feel, observation at this and previous inspection visits noted that service users and staff appeared to be comfortable in their surroundings. There are adequate laundry, bathroom and kitchen facilities. There is an enclosed garden with a patio and seating. The garage has been upgraded to provide an office /staff admin area.. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service Staff are supported to access training courses to enable them to work more effectively with the service users. There are sufficient numbers of staff on duty at all times to support service users needs. 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 have indicated in the past, 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 and are generally followed. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.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 service users and staff appears to be promoted and protected. EVIDENCE: From discussion and observation it would appear that the management is approachable and supportive. An open and inclusive atmosphere appears to have been established within the Home and the Manager frequently meets with staff and service users individually and collectively. The home has been assessed as meeting the standards for ‘Investors in People’ Award. Service users confirmed that residents’ views are sought in all matters relating to lifestyle and daily routine at the Home. The inspector was informed that regular health and safety, environment and equipment checks are undertaken. The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 19 SCORING OF OUTCOMES This page summarises the assessment of the extent to which the National Minimum Standards for Care Homes for Adults 18-65 have been met and uses the following scale. The scale ranges from: 4 Standard Exceeded 2 Standard Almost Met (Commendable) (Minor Shortfalls) 3 Standard Met 1 Standard Not Met (No Shortfalls) (Major Shortfalls) “X” in the standard met box denotes standard not assessed on this occasion “N/A” in the standard met box denotes standard not applicable CHOICE OF HOME Standard No Score 1 X 2 3 3 X 4 X 5 X INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 Score CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS Standard No Score 22 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 X 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 Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 20 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. 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. Refer to Standard Good Practice Recommendations The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 Commission for Social Care Inspection Kent and Medway Area Office 11th Floor International House Dover Place Ashford Kent TN23 1HU 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 The Saltings DS0000023265.V299356.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 22 - Please note that this information is included on www.bestcarehome.co.uk under license from the regulator. Re-publishing this information is in breach of the terms of use of that website. Discrete codes and changes have been inserted throughout the textual data shown on the site that will provide incontrovertable proof of copying in the event this information is re-published on other websites. The policy of www.bestcarehome.co.uk is to use all legal avenues to pursue such offenders, including recovery of costs. You have been warned!