Inspection on 31/08/06 for Vale House Stabilisation Services

This inspection was carried out on 31st August 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 found there to be outstanding requirements from the previous inspection report. These are things the inspector asked to be changed, but found they had not done. The inspector also made 3 statutory requirements (actions the home must comply with) as a result of this inspection.

Other inspections for this house

Vale House Stabilisation Services 22/08/07

Vale House Stabilisation Services 16/12/05

Vale House Stabilisation Services 24/06/05

Vale House Stabilisation Services 17/01/05

Vale House Stabilisation Services 27/09/04

Similar services:

Nascent House

Hebron House

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

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Vale House Stabillisation Services 43 Cowbridge Port Vale Hertford Hertfordshire SG14 1PN Lead Inspector Alison Jessop Key Unannounced Inspection 31st August 2006 10:00 Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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 Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Vale House Stabillisation Services Address 43 Cowbridge Port Vale Hertford Hertfordshire SG14 1PN 01992 553 173 01992 509 729 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) Mrs Chris Hannaby Adrian Relph Care Home 7 Category(ies) of Past or present alcohol dependence (7), Past or registration, with number present drug dependence (7) of places Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: Date of last inspection 16th December 2005 Brief Description of the Service: Vale House is a Stabilisation Unit providing short-term accommodation and therapeutic support to up to seven service users with past or present alcohol or drug dependency. The house is a listed building near the centre of Hertford. It provides seven single occupancy rooms, two bathrooms/WC, kitchen, lounge, dining room, quiet room and laundry. There is one main office and additional offices for the senior management plus a meeting room. The house is comfortably furnished and there is a garden at the rear. The home has a long waiting list and reports a high retention and success rate. A drop-in service is also available to non-residents. A copy of the Service User Guide can be found in the home and is accessible at all times and a copy of the most recent inspection report can be found in the office. The current charges for the service range from £520 to £595 per week. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This unannounced inspection was carried out over half a day by one regulatory inspector. Feedback was gained from six service users and a volunteer over lunch. Time was spent talking to the deputy manager and staff on duty. Records relating to the management of the home were also inspected. The manager and responsible individual were unavailable throughout the inspection and therefore records pertaining to recruitment were unable to be inspected. An additional visit to the home will be arranged to inspect these standards at a later date. What the service does well: What has improved since the last inspection? The service has recently been accredited an Investors in People award with only a small number recommendations made. Risk Assessments relating to the safe control of chemical substances have been reviewed. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 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. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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 Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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. A Robust referral and admission procedure ensures that referrals are appropriate. EVIDENCE: Referrals to Vale House can be made directly or by family members, health professionals, prisons and hospitals. Prospective service users usually visit Vale House and are interviewed by staff that are trained to do so prior to acceptance onto the programme. Consent is also gained from the prospective service user to gain further information about them. The referral procedure ensures that prospective service users fully agree and feel ready to commence the rehabilitation programme. This is essential, as it could not only contribute to their success but of others completing the programme. The home has a robust admission procedure where the ‘Licence to Occupy’, Statement of Terms and Conditions and disclaimer for the use of gym equipment is signed by the home and the service user. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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. Although restrictions placed upon service users offer limited freedom, service users are encouraged to speak openly about their needs and wishes. The home trys to accommodate these needs and wishes within the limitations of the contract. This ensures that they maintain some independence and a sense of identity. EVIDENCE: Care Plans are developed and agreed with service users. They are updated monthly as the service user enters different stages of the programme. Admission onto the programme inevitably limits the service users’ freedom. Individual restrictions are also recorded. Service users confirmed that they are made aware of the rules and that they are free to leave the programme voluntarily at anytime. Service users also confirmed that they felt the sanctions in place were fair. A ‘buddy’ system is in place which offers new service users support from someone who may be nearing the end of the programme. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 10 Although restrictions are in place, service users are free to leave the home within limited times and with appropriate levels of supervision following the initial admission period. All service users stated that they feel they are invited to contribute to the running of the home. House meetings are held weekly and cover issues include items such as menu’s and house chores. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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 have a range of opportunities for personnal development and, when appropriate, as supported by staff to use local facilities. EVIDENCE: Personal interests and hobbies are promoted and as the programme progresses service users are encouraged to gradually integrate back into the community, preparing themselves for the time when the programme ends and are ready to move-on. Service user’s individual care plan may contain additional skills that they may wish to develop. As part of the natural process of the programme life skills such as menu planning, cleaning and budgeting are developed. Opportunities for educational support and voluntary employment are made available depending on the service user’s needs and preferences. Voluntary work in local schools is available where drug prevention is promoted. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 12 Following the initial restrictions on leaving the house, service users level of supervision is decreased as weeks of the programme are completed. Leisure programmes are implemented however activities such as swimming must be supervised by staff. The home trys to employ a varied and inclusive atmosphere, as periods of isolation can be detrimental to their recovery however, service users confirmed that they are free, within reason, to take time on their own. Service users confirmed that they are responsible for menu planning and explained that various diets and likes/dislikes can be accommodated. Feedback was positive about the variety, the quality and quantity of the food served. Service users shop, prepare and cook for all meals on a rota basis. A BBQ was being organised to celebrate the services 10th Anniversary. Service users were involved in the planning and on the day of the inspection a service user accompanied staff to purchase the food. Service users can move on from the house into a flat on site once they are ready. They are welcome to visit Vale House once they have left and can use the drop in service as an on-going support network. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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. This open, inclusive atmosphere offers the service users a feeling of safety and security which is essential in the recovery process as service users can gain support through difficult times. EVIDENCE: Service users are monitored very closely at Vale House and the restrictions placed on them means that independence is minimised. Service users confirmed that within those parameters they are treated with dignity and respect. The home provides a safe and supportive environment. Medication procedures were generally satisfactory although care must be taken to ensure medication is stored in accordance with the manufacturers instructions to ensure its effectiveness. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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 & 23 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Many safety mechanisms are in place at Vale House to ensure that service users are protected from self-harm. EVIDENCE: Service users confirmed that they were aware of how to make a complaint. Staff spoken to are aware of the homes Whistle Blowing Procedure. Staff have not received training on the Protection of Vulnerable Adults Procedure. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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 & 30 Quality in this outcome area is good. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Vale House offers a homely and therapeutic environment to its service users, which encourages a positive family atmosphere helping them to complete the programme. EVIDENCE: The lounge and dining room are appropriately furnished with comfortable, domestic style furniture and furnishings. On the day of the inspection the home was clean and tidy. Vale House is a listed building and therefore development is restricted. It is a domestic style house and is not suitable for wheelchair users. There is a small lounge on the first floor with a small library, television and quiet area. There is a domestic style kitchen, and safe food hygiene procedures were observed. Service users bedrooms observed offered a personal and homely feel. Service users are encouraged to bring personal possessions to the home providing they do not create risks. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 16 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. The staff team are appropriately trained, enthusiastic and appear to take great pride in the service thus creating a positive atmosphere to service users. EVIDENCE: Staff confirmed that they have a job description and are aware of the homes aims and objectives. The company provide an induction and on-going training to ensure that staff fulfil the aims of the home and the changing needs of the service users. Training courses are available in relation to drug and alcohol misuse, rehabilitation and various beneficial therapies. Other compulsory training that had been attended included First Aid, Health & Safety, Fire Safety, Confidentiality and Adult Protection. Two staff have commenced NVQ training courses, which currently does not incorporate the Drug and Alcohol National Occupational Standards (DANOS). The manager has an NVQ assessor’s qualification. Staff interviewed confirmed they receive formal one to one supervision with their manager and group meetings are held regularly. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 17 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 excellent. This judgement has been made using available evidence including a visit to this service. Service users are placed at the care of this service and their health, safety and welfare are paramount. The recent Investors In People Award appears to have further boosted staff morale. EVIDENCE: The house is managed in an open, positive and inclusive manner. In March 2006 the service was awarded Investors in People. The staff team were proud of this achievement and minor recommendations made are due to be implemented to further enhance the service. The current manager of the home is not registered with the Commission for Social Care Inspection. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 18 The home has an effective quality assurance system in place. Records pertaining to health and safety are satisfactorily maintained. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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 2 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 2 33 3 34 X 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 2 X 3 X X 3 X Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 20 Are there any outstanding requirements from the last inspection? Yes 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 YA20 Regulation 13 (2) Requirement Timescale for action 30/09/06 2. 2. YA32 YA37 19(1) 9 (1) Care must be taken to ensure medication is stored in accordance with the manufacturers instructions to ensure its effectiveness. Records pertaining to 31/10/06 recruitment must be available for inspection at all times. The home must be managed 31/10/06 by a person demonstrably fit to do so. The current manager must submit application for registration to the Commission. 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 YA23 Good Practice Recommendations It is recommended that staff receive training on the Protection of Vulnerable Adults Procedure. Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.R01.S.doc Version 5.2 Page 21 Commission for Social Care Inspection Hertfordshire Area Office Mercury House 1 Broadwater Road Welwyn Garden City Hertfordshire AL7 3BQ 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 Vale House Stabillisation Services DS0000019600.V310643.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. 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