5 May 2011
During a routine inspection
Everyone we spoke with told us that staff were kind and respected their privacy and dignity. Comments included, 'I can't grumble about the staff' and 'They are lovely'.
We observed staff supporting people in a friendly and professional way and saw that people were being offered choice with regard to menus and activities.
People told us that staff listen to them and involve them in aspects of their care and the general activities in the home. One person told us, 'I do some gardening here'. People gave us examples of how they are given choices about their care and what they like to do.
They confirmed that the management and staff included them in some decisions about the running of the home. One person commented, 'The manager tells us about things'.
People told us that they had good contact with the local community and that their relatives and friends take them out.
People told us that staff talk to them about their care needs and let them know how and why they are supporting them. One person commented, 'They tell you things in advance so you are prepared for it'.
Most people told us they were satisfied with the activities provided by the service. Some people we spoke with felt there could be more activities provided. One person commented, 'There's not a lot put on'.
Both people who use the service and visitors we spoke with said that there was an open visiting policy at the home and that visitors were made welcome and offered a cup of tea when they visited.
People told us they were happy with the food at the home and that they were given a choice of menu. Comments about the food included, 'Very good', 'Top Ho' and 'Not too bad'. People told us the portion sizes were satisfactory and that staff knew their likes and dislikes. A person commented, 'If there is something you don't like they won't give it to you'. Another person told us, 'There's always plenty to eat'.
People who use the service we spoke to told us they were satisfied with the way the service communicates with the doctor and other health care professionals. One person commented, 'The manager is very good, if there is anything wrong she will call someone'. People told us they have good access to other health care professionals such as chiropodists, opticians and dentists.
People who use the service told us they felt safe at the home and that they would talk to the manager or staff if they were concerned about anything. One person commented, 'I have no concerns, I feel safe'.
People told us the manager was very approachable and they had confidence that she would take any concerns seriously and take action to resolve any problems.
People told us that the cleanliness of the home was, 'Very good'.
One person commented, 'There are good washing facilities, that new bath is marvellous'.
People who use the service told us they were satisfied with the way medication is dealt with by the home. Most people knew what medication they were on and told us this had been explained to them when they first moved in.
People we spoke with told us they felt safe with the staff who support them.
People who use the service that we spoke to said they thought there were enough staff on duty at the home. People told us that the staff were very busy and one person told us the staff were often, 'rushed off their feet'.
People told us that they had confidence in the staff team and that staff responded to their needs appropriately. One person commented, 'We talk together like pals'. People also said the management and staff were approachable and friendly.