Inspection on 13/01/06 for The Thorns

This inspection was carried out on 13th January 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 Thorns 14/10/08

The Thorns 10/10/06

The Thorns 19/08/05

The Thorns 27/01/05

The Thorns 22/06/04

The Thorns 29/08/02

Similar services:

Chirnside House

Keer Sands Residential Home

Ruskin Lodge

Bushell House

Langrigg House

Parkside

Dystlegh Grange

Thornton Lodge

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

CARE HOMES FOR OLDER PEOPLE The Thorns Coastal Road Hest Bank Lancaster Lancashire LA2 6DW Lead Inspector Mr Ajam Auckburally Unannounced Inspection 13th January 2006 11:00 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 The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 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. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service The Thorns Address Coastal Road Hest Bank Lancaster Lancashire LA2 6DW 01524 822558 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) Morpress Properties Mrs Denise Audrey Shuttleworth Care Home 15 Category(ies) of Old age, not falling within any other category registration, with number (15) of places The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection 19th August 2005 Brief Description of the Service: The Thorns is situated in Hest Bank village in Lancaster and close to the Lancaster canal. The home is the converted family house of the owners and provides accommodation for a maximum of fifteen residents of both sexes who are 65 and over. Accommodation is provided in 11 singles and 2 double bedrooms. The double rooms are mostly used as singles, unless they are occupied by married couples who want to share a room. All the bedrooms except two have an ensuite facility. All the bedrooms are well furnished but service users can furnish their rooms with their own furniture if they wish. The home is situated away from the main road and although local shops and amenities are close by, they are not easily accessible by frail elderly people. The home is staffed around the clock and residents said that they are well cared for. There were twelve residents residing at the home at the time of the inspection. They all said that they are well cared for and that all the staff are kind and considerate. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This statutory inspection was the second of two to be carried out this year. The inspection took place on 13th January 2006 and was an unannounced one. It lasted for 3.5 hours. The inspection was carried out against the National Minimum Standards for Older People. The inspection was carried out in a relaxed atmosphere with the full cooperation of the manager, the staff and all the residents. The inspection took the form of looking at some of the records, talking to the residents and the staff and looking around the building. There were 12 residents living at the home and they said that they were well cared for and that all the staff were kind and helpful. What the service does well: What has improved since the last inspection? The dining room has been redecorated and residents were consulted about the colour scheme. There is ongoing training for the staff. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 6 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 Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 7 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 The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 8 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): The home does not provide intermediate care. The other core standard was assessed during the previous inspection and was met. EVIDENCE: The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 9 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 7&9 The arrangements for assessing and meeting residents’ needs are good. The policies and procedures on medications are stringent. Residents have good care plans and their medications are dispensed in a safe manner. EVIDENCE: Every resident has a personal file containing his or her assessments and care plans. The case files of two residents were examined and they showed that they have been assessed properly and that care provided is according to assessed needs. The records also show that care provided is recorded and that monthly reviews take place. The residents spoken to said that they receive good care and that the staff are kind. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 10 One resident said, “I have only been here for a week and everyone is so kind. I think I am going to like living here.” The staff the inspector spoke to were fully aware of the needs of the residents and said that they were involved in providing care according to individual assessments. The records of medications were examined and they were found to be correct. An audit trail of the medications of two residents was done and they were found to be accurate. The recommendations made by the pharmacist inspector during his visit have been implemented. The manager was aware that following the death of a resident, medications should be kept for a week in the event that a post mortem is carried out. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 11 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 14 & 15 There are good practices to encourage residents to remain active and provide them with choices. Food is an important part in the home’s daily activity. Residents are given choices in their daily activity and have good food. EVIDENCE: The residents said that they can have as much independence as they want and that the staff help them when they need assistance. The manager said that the policy of the home is to encourage residents to remain as independent as they want. The inspector joined in a session of Tai Chi that was taking place at the time of the inspection. Six residents took part in these sitting exercises and they all said that they enjoy this weekly activity. One other aspect of this activity is that residents get together and have a chat. One resident said that it would be nice to have a boat trip on the nearby canal. The manager said that when the weather improves, she would arrange for one. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 12 The staff spoken to said that although residents are encouraged to retain their independence, they are not forced to do anything they don’t want. They can choose when to go to bed and when to get up. The records of meals served were examined and they show that a variety of food is provided. A choice of food is not provided at lunchtime when the main meal of the day is served. However, the manager said that if a resident does not like something, a substantial alternative is provided. She said that all the staff are aware of the likes and dislikes of the residents. A wide choice of food is provided for breakfast and teatime. The resident said that the food is good and that they get plenty to eat and drink. Breakfast is mainly served in the bedrooms. The residents spoken to said that they like this service. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 13 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 inspected at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 18 Policies and procedures on abuse are comprehensive. Residents feel safe and protected. EVIDENCE: The manager has produced a detailed written policies and procedures on adult abuse. The manager and some of the staff have had training on adult abuse. The manager is fully aware of the steps to take in the event of an abuse taking place to a resident. The staff spoken to said that they would never abuse any resident in their care and that they would report if they saw any form of abuse. The residents said that they feel safe and secure living at the home and that everyone treats them well. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 14 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 25 & 26 Residents live in clean environment. EVIDENCE: During a tour of the building, the home was found to be clean and free from unpleasant smell. All the bedrooms were found to be clean and free from hazards. The residents said that the domestic staff clean and tidy their rooms on a daily basis. They give the rooms a thorough cleaning once week or as required. The communal areas were found to be clean and pleasant. The manager said that cleaning takes place to fit in with residents’ activity. No one has to leave their rooms during cleaning. Some of the central heating radiators have been fitted with low heat surface covers. The remaining ones must be done by the end of June 2006 as agreed. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 15 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 29 The recruitment policy and procedures are stringent. Staff training plays an important part in staff development. Residents are cared for by a team of well chosen and trained staff. EVIDENCE: The written recruitment policy gives detail of the way a member of staff is employed. When there is a vacancy for a job, it is advertised locally and interested parties are given application forms to complete. From information received, prospective staff are selected for interviews. Once a new staff has been selected, two written references are taken and POVA (Protection Of Vulnerable Adults) and CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) checks are done. No staff starts work until satisfactory checks have been done. Once a new member of staff starts work at the home, she undertakes an induction training programme involving orientation of the home, meeting residents and staff. Training also include, Fire Procedures, Moving and Handling and many other relevant courses The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 16 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 at least once during a 12 month period. JUDGEMENT – we looked at outcomes for the following standard(s): 38 Care practices promote residents’ best interest and their health and well-being. Residents live in a safe home and they are well cared for. EVIDENCE: The residents said that the manager is kind and helpful and that she is always available to see them. The residents said that they feel safe living at the home. They said that the staff are very caring. Staff training such as Moving and Handling, Fire Safety, First Aid, Food Hygiene and Infection Control are given to ensure the health and well being of the residents. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 17 Risk assessments of the building are carried out to ensure that the home is safe and that there are no hazards that could hurt the residents. Every resident is risk assessed to ensure that care provided is tailored and safe. The residents said that all the staff have their best interest at heart. They said that they are all kind and encourage them to be independent and live as good a life as possible. The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 18 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 X X X N/A HEALTH AND PERSONAL CARE Standard No Score 7 3 8 X 9 3 10 X 11 X DAILY LIFE AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES Standard No Score 12 X 13 X 14 3 15 3 COMPLAINTS AND PROTECTION Standard No Score 16 X 17 X 18 3 X X X X X X 2 3 STAFFING Standard No Score 27 X 28 X 29 3 30 X MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION Standard No 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 Score X X X X X X X 3 The Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 19 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. 1. Standard OP25 Regulation 23 Timescale for action All central heating radiators must 30/06/06 be fitted with low heat surface covers Requirement 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 Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 20 Commission for Social Care Inspection North Lancashire Area Office 2nd Floor, Unit 1, Tustin Court Port Way Preston PR2 2YQ 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 Thorns DS0000009876.V278204.R01.S.doc Version 5.1 Page 21 - 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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