Archived: Broadlands Park Residential Care Home

We found that where risks had been identified a more robust system was now being used. Records showed that those at risk were more closely monitored and appropriate action had taken place to reduce the risks.

Previously care records had not been regularly reviewed. At this inspection we found they had been reviewed and the four we looked through were up to date. This ensured people had a record of their current care needs.

At this inspection we found all staff were up to date with their appraisals and mandatory training. Due to the high level of need to support people living with dementia, skills and expertise were now being introduced to the staff team. This would ensure they could offer the correct care and support.

People were now asked for their views and opinions on the quality of the service provided. Any action required on identified concerns would be acted upon.

The meals and drinks provided were suitable and met the individual needs such as finger foods for people who preferred this way of eating. Staff sat with people during the meal and encouraged the people to eat their food. The catering staff were aware of people who needed their meals supplemented or fortified. Drinks were available at regular intervals throughout the day. We found people were supported well with their nutritional needs.

The home supported the carers in the staff team with regular supervisions and some training. However, some training was overdue and some senior staff members and ancillary staff had not received regular supervision. Some staff members were not always fully supported to carry out their work.

The manager informed us that audits for ensuring the quality of the service provided was assessed and monitored had not been completed. People who lived in the home had not been asked their views on the service. However, we had not received any complaints about this home and one comment received from a relative in 2012 complimented the home on the service it provided.

We watched people taking part in group conversation or sitting on their own in quiet areas. We saw both visitors and their relative enjoying kicking leaves in the garden when returning from an outing. Two people were helping with household chores.

People were attended to promptly by staff when requesting their assistance. People were asked direct questions to allow them time to make their own decision. One person told us: "If I don't fancy taking part in the quiz, the staff don't mind." Another person told us: "If I want to dip in and out of things then I can, I enjoy the quizzes it helps keep my brain active."

People appeared comfortable within the environment, staff were attentive to people's needs within the main lounge. We saw one member of staff place a blanket round a person's shoulders because they said they were cold. Another member of staff went to speak with a person who was sitting on their own, who responded with a smile.