Upalong Residential Home

Updated 21 April 2021

We carried out this inspection under Section 60 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 as part of our regulatory functions. This inspection was planned to check whether the provider is meeting the legal requirements and regulations associated with the Health and Social Care Act 2008.

As part of CQC's response to the coronavirus pandemic we are looking at the preparedness of care homes in relation to infection prevention and control. This was a targeted inspection looking at the infection control and prevention measures the provider has in place.

This inspection took place on 24 March 2021 and was announced.

Updated 21 April 2021

Care service description

Upalong Residential Home is a care home that provides care, support and accommodation for a maximum of nine older people some of whom were living with dementia. At the time of the inspection eight people were living at the service. The service did not require a registered manager to be in place and was managed by the registered provider.

Rating at last inspection

At our last inspection we rated the service good. At this inspection we found the evidence continued to support the rating of good and there was no evidence or information from our inspection and ongoing monitoring that demonstrated serious risks or concerns. This inspection report is written in a shorter format because our overall rating of the service has not changed since our last inspection.

Why the service is rated good

People felt safe and staff were aware of the safeguarding procedure should there be a concern. Relatives also felt their family members were safe living at the service. There were sufficient levels of staff on duty to ensure that people’s needs were met and who had been recruited appropriately.

Risks to people’s care was managed well by staff and people received their medicines in a safe way. The registered provider had up-to date procedures to help ensure people remained safe in an emergency. Staff were effective in ensuring the service was clean and that they adhered to good infection control measures.

People's needs had been assessed before moving in to the service and care plans reflected those needs and preferences. Care plans were reviewed regularly and contained accurate information about people's current needs. People had access to health care professionals and staff followed the advice given by them. People were supported with their nutrition and hydration needs and told us the quality of the food was good.

People were treated in a kind and caring way by staff who respected their dignity. Staff spoke to people in a kind and considerate manner. People were supported with their independence and had choices around their delivery of care.

People chose how they spent their time and could take part in activities if they wanted to. Trips were arranged for people outside of the service. Staff worked well together and communicated changes to people’s needs to each other. Improvements in how of end of life care is discussed and recorded should be made. People told us that they would speak to staff if they had any concerns. There was a complaints procedure in place and complaints were investigated and responded to.

There was an experienced and well supported staff team employed at the service. The registered provider carried out quality assurance checks to ensure people received a good standard of care. Staff consulted with outside professionals to ensure the best delivery of care. People and staff had provided feedback when they were consulted about the service. Notification were sent to the CQC where appropriate.

Further information is in the detailed findings below