8 April 2016
During a routine inspection
The home is a detached single storey property set in countryside near Tonbridge. At the time of our inspection there were two people living at the home both of whom were living with complex needs. The home had a registered manager. 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.
People were kept safe as staff were confident and knowledgeable in how to protect people from abuse and harm. Risk assessments were person centred and gave staff clear guidance regarding people’s individual needs. Accidents and incidents were recorded and monitored and action was taken to reduce the risks of recurrence.
Staffing levels were based on people’s support needs and were reviewed in line with people’s changing needs. Records showed that recruitment procedures were followed to ensure staff were suitable to work with people.
Medicines were stored and administered safely so that people received the medicines they needed.
Staff knew people well and provided effective support that was based on detailed guidelines written in people’s individual care plans. Staff received guidance, support and training according to people’s needs.
Staff sought and obtained people’s consent before they provided support. When people declined or changed their mind, their wishes were respected. People were supported to eat a balanced diet that met their needs and preferences. Staff were knowledgeable about people’s individual requirements.
People received care and support that promoted their health and wellbeing. Staff were proactive in seeking assistance from a wide range of healthcare professionals.
People were treated with kindness and compassion and the culture of care was person centred. Relationships between people and staff were strong and people were respected and treated with dignity. People were encouraged to be involved and staff knew and acknowledged people’s strengths.
People’s care plans were reviewed regularly and updated when their needs changed to ensure they received the support they required. People’s care was based on their preferences, likes and dislikes. People led active lives and were supported to undertake a range of activities.
The registered manager had a strong person centred ethos and staff told us they felt valued and supported under her leadership. Quality assurance systems were in place to identify how the service could improve. Relatives knew how to make a complaint and were given opportunities to give their views.