Wallace Lodge is a purpose built detached bungalow which provides care and support for up to three people with a learning disability. At the time of our visit there were three people living at the home. This inspection took place on 12 May 2016 and was announced to ensure people who used the service would be present. We last inspected the service in June 2014. At that inspection we found the service was meeting all the regulations that we inspected.
At the time of our inspection the service did not have a registered manager in post. A registered manager is a person who has registered with the Care Quality Commission to manage the service. Like registered providers, they are 'registered persons'. Registered persons have legal responsibility for meeting the requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated Regulations about how the service is run. The registered manager had recently left the service following a number of years' service at the home. An acting manager had been appointed to provide interim management support for the home.
The home had a homely feel, communal areas were light and bright, people’s rooms were decorated and personalised to their choice.
The registered provider carried out regular health and safety checks included checks of gas safety, electrical safety, electrical appliances and fire safety. Each person had a detailed personal emergency evacuation procedure in place which outlined how to support the person in the event of an emergency.
During our inspection we observed sufficient staff on duty to meet people’s needs.
Identified risks were assessed and managed to minimise the risk to people who used the service and others.
Staff had a good understanding of safeguarding and described confidently what action they would take if required.
The registered provider had a robust recruitment procedure in place which included ensuring appropriate checks were undertaken before staff started work.
Medicines records we viewed were up to date and accurate. People were supported to take their medicines in their preferred way.
Staff understood and applied the principles of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA), and were aware of people’s rights when they could not consent themselves. We saw staff supported people to make choices and decisions.
People were supported to maintain a balanced diet. We saw that each individual’s preference was catered for and people were supported to manage their weight.
Staff had completed mandatory training required to perform their role. We noted all training was up to date.
People were treated with dignity and respect. Staff had a sound knowledge of the people they supported. Staff encouraged people to be as independent as possible.
The home ensured people received care and support from healthcare professionals including social workers, community psychiatric nurses, opticians and GPs.
People were involved in a wide range of activities including attending church, an art group, going to the pub and shopping. Staff supported people to maintain family relationships and links with the local community.
Care plans were detailed and reflected people’s individual needs. Reviews of people’s care were regularly completed and included input from the person.
Staff told us they enjoyed working at the home and they felt supported by the acting manager.
The registered provider had a comprehensive system to audit the running of the service. These included checks of the medication systems, care plans and training.
Feedback was sought from people, relatives and staff in order to monitor and improve standards.
Team meetings were held monthly to discuss issues within the service.