Please wait

Please note that the information on this website is now out of date. It is planned that we will update and relaunch, but for now is of historical interest only and we suggest you visit cqc.org.uk

Inspection on 09/12/05 for Whitworth Lodge

Also see our care home review for Whitworth Lodge for more information

This inspection was carried out on 9th December 2005.

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

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

What the care home does well

The plans of care and intervention are well created, and reflect very closely the specific needs of the person. These are reviewed and revised regularly and service users are fully involved. There is consultation with service users about their changing needs. Records confirmed that each service user is fully supported to access relevant healthcare services and that the home maintains good communication links with service users relatives and other relevant professionals. Record keeping continues to be well organised and the manager and staff team work consistently to maintain and improve standards. The service users are supported in making choices and undertaking activities they enjoy. There are many recreational activities offered in a variety of ways. Service users are treated with respect and staff value their individuality. Service users spoken to commented favourably about their lifestyle in the home and said that they liked the activities and the staff who work with them. There is a friendly and welcoming atmosphere within Whitworth lodge; the home is well furnished and provides comfortable and homely surroundings for the service users to live.

What has improved since the last inspection?

The home has met the previous two requirements and also addressed two of the three good practice recommendations. Chopping boards used for food preparation have been replaced and new double glazed front and back doors installed. As previously required, an alternative locking device is fitted to the rear fire exit door meaning that security in the home can be maintained whilst also ensuring that service users and staff can evacuate safely in the event of a fire. Other home improvements have included the provision of new carpets in some areas. A policy on homely remedies has been developed by the home. This means that domestic medication such as painkillers is now available for the service users should they need it. Staff training continues to be well managed and ensures that staff update their skills and knowledge periodically. More staff have attended formal training on the protection of vulnerable adults. Training is planned for other staff as courses become available.

CARE HOME ADULTS 18-65 Whitworth Lodge 52 Whitworth Road South Norwood London SE25 6XJ Lead Inspector Claire Taylor Unannounced Inspection 9 December 2005 3.15pm Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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. Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 3 SERVICE INFORMATION Name of service Whitworth Lodge Address 52 Whitworth Road South Norwood London SE25 6XJ 020 8768 0159 020 8771 3514 alt_Thompson@blueyander.co.uk 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 George Thompson Mrs Audrey Lyn Thompson Mr Andreas Steinmann Care Home 6 Category(ies) of Learning disability (6) registration, with number of places Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 4 SERVICE INFORMATION Conditions of registration: 1. A variation has been granted to allow three specified service users with additional mental health needs to be accommodated. 4th April 2005 Date of last inspection Brief Description of the Service: Whitworth Lodge is registered to provide residential care for six young adults who have learning disabilities, some of whom have associated mental health needs. The home is a large three storey building situated in a residential area of South Norwood. It is well positioned to access local transport links to nearby Croydon and Crystal Palace, as well as local shops and amenities. There are six single bedrooms, two bathrooms, a shower room, spacious lounge, open plan kitchen/ dining room, office, laundry and rear garden. The home has its own minibus that is used to facilitate a wide range of outings and activities. Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 5 SUMMARY This is an overview of what the inspector found during the inspection. This inspection was unannounced and was the home’s second inspection for the year 2005/2006. The visit began at 3.15pm and lasted just over three hours. The majority of service users were met and spoken to as well as the home manager and two staff, one of who had recently joined. Other time was spent looking at various records and a brief walk round the home took place. There have been no new admissions to the home and the manager reported that there have been no significant changes since the last inspection. All those who contributed to the inspection process are thanked for their time and for sharing their views about the home. The home received a positive report for the previous inspection (April 2005) and has once again showed consistency in its application of the National Minimum Standards as well as a commitment to improve upon quality of care for the service users. All key standards were assessed at the home’s previous inspection in April 2005 and the reader is therefore referred to that report should they require any further information. What the service does well: What has improved since the last inspection? The home has met the previous two requirements and also addressed two of the three good practice recommendations. Chopping boards used for food preparation have been replaced and new double glazed front and back doors installed. As previously required, an alternative locking device is fitted to the rear fire exit door meaning that security in the home can be maintained whilst also ensuring that service users and staff can evacuate safely in the event of a fire. Other home improvements have included the provision of new carpets in Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 6 some areas. A policy on homely remedies has been developed by the home. This means that domestic medication such as painkillers is now available for the service users should they need it. Staff training continues to be well managed and ensures that staff update their skills and knowledge periodically. More staff have attended formal training on the protection of vulnerable adults. Training is planned for other staff as courses become available. 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. Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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): X None of these standards were assessed on this occasion. Standard 2 was assessed as met at the April 2005 inspection. EVIDENCE: Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 and 7 Service users’ plans of care clearly identify their needs and how they are supported to achieve their planned goals. Individual plans are frequently reviewed and reflect any changing needs. Service users are consulted about how the home operates and are enabled to make decisions about their lives. Standard 9 was assessed as met at the April 2005 inspection. EVIDENCE: Three service users files were examined at random. Care Plans are well structured and developed by service users’ keyworkers, with evidence of regular reviews involving service users and other significant parties. Specific programmes and support plans are in place to guide staff to meet service users’ needs. Daily records indicated that staff have clearly developed a working knowledge of the behaviours, moods, signals and temperaments of the service users. Detailed behaviour management strategies and interventions are in place for some service users who may behave in a way that puts themselves or others at risk of being physically harmed. The specialist communication and behaviour needs of each service user are clearly outlined to enable staff to support them appropriately and minimise a potential Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 10 incident. Guidelines are frequently reviewed or as changes occur together with associated risk assessments. As previously recommended however, the plans could be developed further to enable some people who have differing methods of communication to be more involved in the development and review of the plans. Pictures and photos should be included to make them more accessible and meaningful to individuals. Records and discussion showed that staff support service users to make decisions about their lives. An example was where one service user recently chose how to spend his birthday and was supported by his keyworker to go on an outing to Bognor Regis for the day. Minutes of monthly meetings showed that service users are consulted about what they want to do and that their views have an influence on the running of the home. Additionally, service users are treated very much as individuals and their rights respected. Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 and 16 Service users are supported to continue education and appropriate activities within the home and local community so that they can maximise fulfilment and achievement in their lives. Staff treat people who live in the home with respect, value their individuality and promote their individual rights. Standards 15 and 17 were assessed as met at the April 2005 inspection. EVIDENCE: Most of the daily activities offered are through local college courses, day centres and local community resources. One service user undertakes paid employment at a local snooker club and another helps out in a local pub. Other service users participate in further educational courses such as creative arts and music. One person does voluntary work for a local Conservation scheme. Service users are provided with guidance and support to make use of facilities appropriate to their interests and needs. Records also showed that staff work hard to provide the service users with stimulating activities that are based upon individual choices. Each service user has an individual planned activity programme, which takes account of their preferences, interests, experiences, age and capabilities. These activities are reviewed regularly to ensure they Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 12 meet the changing needs of the service users. A list of activities participated in by each service user is maintained daily, along with a comments section on outcomes of each activity. Indoor entertainment facilities provided include TV, music centre, videos, board games, darts, magazines and art and craft activities. The service users always have an annual holiday and recently spent a week in Lowestoft. Feedback about the holiday was positive from service users spoken to. Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 and 20 Personal care is carried out in a way that service users prefer so that dignity and choice are maintained. The home’s systems regarding medication are well organised to ensure the safety and consistent treatment and support for each service user. Standard 19 was assessed as met at the April 2005 inspection. EVIDENCE: Service user plans are informative and clearly outline the ways in which the staff team will work with the individual to support them. Where support is required with personal physical care, this is identified and guidance is available on how specific tasks should be undertaken. Known as “personal care support” forms these ensure that staff have full guidance in facilitating personal care. Daily routines and house rules promote independence and individual choice for service users. Records showed that staff respect the service users individuality Times for getting up/going to bed are flexible, as are mealtimes. The home encourages service users to be responsible for housekeeping tasks, which is specified in their care plans. Individual rooms are lockable and service users are provided with a key unless indicated in their individual care plans. Medication is stored appropriately within a locked kitchen cupboard and staff have undertaken appropriate training provided by the home’s pharmacist. Records for the receipt and safe disposal of medication and administration records were up to date and accounted for. As previously recommended, the Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 14 home has developed a homely remedies policy which has been approved by the G.P. Domestic medication such as painkillers is now available for the service users should they need it. Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 and 23 Arrangements for dealing with complaints are well managed to ensure that service users feel listened to and their views are acted upon. There are procedures and systems in place regarding the protection of vulnerable adults and prevention of abuse. EVIDENCE: There are robust policies and procedures in place regarding complaints and the protection of vulnerable adults. The home facilitates meetings to enable service users to bring matters of concern in order that appropriate action can be taken. There is also has a logbook to document any complaints or concerns. There have been no complaints since the last inspection. Since the last inspection two more staff have attended formal training on the protection of vulnerable adults. Training is planned for other staff as courses become available. The induction process for staff includes training in identifying and responding to mistreatment and suspected abuse. This was confirmed through checking staff records for the newest employee. Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 and 30 The décor, furnishings and fittings in the home are of a good standard and provide a comfortable and homely place for service users to live. The home is clean, hygienic and in a good state of repair which enables service users to live in a safe environment. EVIDENCE: Service users bedrooms were not viewed on this occasion and a brief walk round the home took place. The premises, as at previous inspections, appeared tidy and in a good state of repair and gives the impression of a homely and comfortable environment. Further home improvements have been carried out including the installation of double glazed front and back doors and some new carpets fitted. As previously required, new chopping boards used for food preparation have been purchased. There are systems in place to minimise the risk of infection and the standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the home remain well maintained. Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 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 and 34 Service users benefit from a competent and knowledgeable staff team, who are provided with the necessary training and guidance to support their needs. Recruitment practices are generally robust and aimed to safeguard service users although all appropriate checks must be obtained for staff before they can work unsupervised. This ensures that service users living in the home are not put at risk from people who should not be working there. Standard 35 was assessed as met at the April 2005 inspection. EVIDENCE: The staff team remain largely unchanged resulting in consistency and familiarity for the people who live there. Since the last inspection, one new care staff has been appointed and his personal file was examined. The induction process includes training on the principles of care, safe working practices, worker role and the experiences and needs of the service users. The new staff gave positive feedback about his orientation to the home as well as working alongside a supportive manager and staff team. Regular staff meetings are held to ensure information is cascaded to all staff and they have an opportunity to discuss any issues. On the whole, the home shows vigilance in carrying out the necessary recruitment checks to ensure the protection of service users. Although a POVA check (this is a legal check against a register to verify a person’s suitability to work with vulnerable people) had been completed, rotas showed that the Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 18 newest staff had been working unsupervised without a CRB check. Although the manager had not received the home’s copy of the completed CRB disclosure, the new employee had received his and at the request of the inspector, brought in the copy for verification. The manager is reminded however that staff must not work unsupervised until the home is in receipt of both an approved CRB and POVA check. A requirement was set for this. Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 19 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 and 42 The home is well run with a clear and open style of a management. Good safe working practices ensure that the home aims to promote and protect the health and welfare of service users at all times. Standard 39 was assessed as met at the April 2005 inspection. EVIDENCE: The registered manager is well experienced to manage the home and demonstrates a clear understanding of the needs of the service users. Mr Steinmann has relevant training and professional qualifications for managing this home. Encouraging comments about the leadership and management style of the home were received from both staff and service users. The home has good systems in place that aim to promote the health, safety and welfare of service users, staff and visitors. The previous concern regarding the locking of the back fire door had been addressed. Both the front and rear doors of the home have been replaced and are fitted with alternative locking devices. This means that security in the home can be maintained whilst also ensuring that service users and staff can evacuate safely in the event of a fire. Servicing and maintenance records were sampled and up to date. E.g. Fire drills, fire Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 20 equipment and hot water temperature checks carried out at appropriate intervals. Staff were fully up to date in key areas of health and safety training i.e. moving and handling, food hygiene, fire safety and first aid. The new staff member reported that he had attended training in health and safety and first aid. Certificates were held on his personal file to confirm this. Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 21 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 CONCERNS AND COMPLAINTS Standard No 1 2 3 4 5 Score X X X X X Standard No 22 23 Score 3 3 ENVIRONMENT INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND CHOICES Standard No 6 7 8 9 10 Score 3 3 X X X Standard No 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 STAFFING Score 3 X X X X X 3 LIFESTYLES Standard No Score 11 X 12 3 13 3 14 X 15 X 16 3 17 Standard No 31 32 33 34 35 36 Score X 3 3 2 X X CONDUCT AND MANAGEMENT OF THE HOME X PERSONAL AND HEALTHCARE SUPPORT Standard No 18 19 20 21 Whitworth Lodge Score 3 X 3 X Standard No 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 Score 3 X X X X 3 X DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 22 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. 1. Standard YA34 Regulation 17(2) 9(1)(b,c) Requirement The registered provider must ensure that they obtain an up to date CRB and POVA check for new staff before they commence employment. Staff must not work unsupervised until such time that both a valid CRB and POVA clearance has been obtained. (From the point of this inspection- 09/12/05) Timescale for action 09/12/05 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 YA6 Good Practice Recommendations The home should consider ways to improve its communication methods for service users with limited abilities. I.e. service user plans written in a format that is more meaningful to them. E.g. supplemented with pictures, symbols and /or photographs. Recommendation repeated from April 2005 inspection Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 23 Commission for Social Care Inspection Croydon, Sutton & Kingston Office 8th Floor Grosvenor House 125 High Street Croydon CR0 9XP 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 Whitworth Lodge DS0000025869.V271757.R01.S.doc Version 5.0 Page 24 - 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!